Study Rationale

Primary dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, often resulting in twisting movements or abnormal postures. While deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the globus pallidus internus (GPi) is an effective treatment, its mechanisms remain incompletely understood. This study aims to use magnetoencephalography (MEG) and local field potential (LFP) recordings to explore how GPi DBS modulates functional connectivity within affected neural networks. Insights into these mechanisms could improve DBS programming and outcomes for dystonia patient

Hypothesis

1. Theta-band coherence between the GPi and cortical regions correlates with dystonia severity.
2. Chronic GPi DBS induces neuroplastic changes in functional connectivity, particularly involving motor cortices, which align with symptom improvement.

Study design

• Aim 1: Characterize the pallido-cortical network in dystonia by analyzing MEG and LFP recordings during DBS OFF states.
• Aim 2: Assess neuroplasticity changes induced by acute (1 month) and chronic (6 months) DBS, evaluating functional connectivity during DBS ON states and correlating findings with clinical outcomes.

impact

This study will provide critical insights into the role of functional connectivity networks in dystonia treatment, paving the way for connectomic-guided DBS programming. It may also identify biomarkers for more consistent and efficient clinical outcomes.

Next steps for development

The findings from this pilot study will support an NIH R01 application and smaller grants from organizations such as the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation. The results aim to develop a platform for personalized neuromodulation therapy, improving treatment strategies for dystonia patient.

additional information

The study involves 5 dystonia patients undergoing bilateral GPi DBS at UF. Data will be collected during two research visits coinciding with their 1- and 6-month DBS programming sessions. LFP and MEG recordings will be analyzed for coherence and spectral feature changes, correlating with clinical improvements.

collaboration

• Dr. Joshua Wong (PI): Leads IRB management, protocol design, and data analysis; supervises the research coordinator; and contributes to manuscript and grant preparation.
• Dr. Coralie de Hemptinne (Co-PI): Oversees electrophysiology data analysis and provides expertise in movement disorder neurophysiology.
• Dr. Abbas Babajani-Feremi (Co-PI): Directs MEG lab operations, supervises data collection, and guides data analysis.