Using technology to measure movement difficulties in spinocerebellar ataxias for better diagnosis and treatment.
A Computational Approach for Quantifying Motor Behaviors in Spinocerebellar Ataxias to Improve Early Detection of Motor Signs and Precisely Estimate Disease Severity and Disease Change
This study is working on new ways to use everyday tools like microphones and smartphone cameras to better track how people with spinocerebellar ataxias move and speak, helping doctors spot symptoms earlier and understand how the disease changes over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11052489 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced tools to objectively measure motor behaviors in patients with spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA), a group of neurodegenerative diseases. By utilizing everyday technologies like microphones and smartphone cameras, the study aims to capture detailed data on arm function, speech, and eye movements. The goal is to improve early detection of motor symptoms, enhance the understanding of disease progression, and support clinical trials by providing more accurate assessments of treatment efficacy. This innovative approach leverages machine learning algorithms to generate precise estimates of disease severity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with spinocerebellar ataxias who are experiencing motor function difficulties.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of ataxia or those without motor function impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and more personalized treatment plans for patients with spinocerebellar ataxias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using technology and machine learning for assessing motor functions, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gupta, Anoopum Satyawan — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Gupta, Anoopum Satyawan
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.