Understanding Sex Differences in Dystonia
Neuronal Mechanisms Underlying Sex Differences in Dystonia
['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11159745
This research explores why dystonia, a movement disorder, affects more females than males by looking at differences in brain function.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11159745 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Dystonia causes involuntary muscle contractions and twisting movements, and it is known to be more common in females, but the reasons for this difference are not well understood. This project focuses on how specific brain areas, particularly the basal ganglia and striatum, might function differently in males and females. We are especially interested in how hormones like estrogen might influence these brain cells, called neurons, to better understand the underlying causes of these sex differences in dystonia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to help individuals living with dystonia, especially those who experience sex-specific symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients whose dystonia is not influenced by sex differences or hormonal factors may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of new, more targeted treatments for dystonia that consider biological sex differences, potentially improving outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: The mechanisms behind sex differences in dystonia are largely unexplored, making this a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- EMORY UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HESS, ELLEN J. — EMORY UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: HESS, ELLEN J.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Autosomal Dominant Segawa Syndrome