Why some people see constant 'visual snow' (static-like vision)
The neural basis of visual snow syndrome
Researchers will compare brain activity and vision tests in people with visual snow and people without it to learn how the brain produces the constant static-like images.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11306988 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would take vision tests that use a technique called visual adaptation to briefly reduce your symptoms while researchers compare your responses with people who do not have visual snow. You would also have non-invasive brain scans (functional MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure brain activity and brain chemistry. The team will look for excess spontaneous activity in visual brain areas that could create the constant flickering specks you see. Understanding where the signals start could point to objective tests and possible new treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people who regularly experience constant static-like flickering across their visual field (visual snow) and are willing and able to undergo behavioral testing and MRI/MRS scans at the study site.
Not a fit: People who do not have visual snow, who have visual symptoms caused by a clearly identified eye disease, or who cannot safely undergo MRI scans are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to objective tests, better diagnosis, and new treatment targets that reduce visual snow and improve daily activities like reading and driving.
How similar studies have performed: Early, small studies—including the team's recent finding that visual adaptation can temporarily ease symptoms—support the approach, but combining adaptation with brain imaging and spectroscopy to pinpoint causes is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schallmo, Michael-Paul — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Schallmo, Michael-Paul
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.