Neuroanatomical Isolation of Networks in Dystonia through Analysis of Causal Brain Lesiona

The goal of this study is to reveal the anatomy of dystonia by analyzing causal links between symptoms and brain structures affected by lesions. This will ultimately identify targets for new brain stimulation methods.

Developing High-Throughput Assays to Enable Drug Development for DYT1 Dystonia

This project will use advanced molecular methods to develop new pharmacological approaches that disrupt the cellular cascade leading to neuronal dysfunction with the aim to select specific compounds with drug-like properties that may potentially be developed into dystonia drugs.

Theta Burst Transcranial Focused Ultrasound as a Novel Treatment for Cervical Dystonia

This project aims to explore the effects of a novel non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has the potential to be a safer, less costly, and more accessible alternative to deep brain stimulation.

The Role of Basal Ganglia Pathways Engaged in Skilled Forelimb Movement in a Mouse Model of DYT1 Dystonia

The aim of the project is to quantify and manipulate the brain activity underlying a dystonic forelimb movement in mice. The results should facilitate targeting specific neuronal populations of the direct basal ganglia to produce more efficient therapies.

Spike-Triggered Adaptive Closed-Loop Cerebellar Deep Brain Stimulation for Dystonia

Mahlon DeLong Young Investigator Award Dr. Kim will test the hypothesis that the unique pathophysiological cerebellar neural signals in dystonia can serve as robust biomarkers for triggering an adaptable closed-loop deep brain stimulation response to restore movement with high precision.