The Dystonia Society is active in supporting research into the causes of dystonia and into improved treatments.
Completed Project
- Physiotherapy research study
Jean-Pierre Bleton Physiotherapy
Current Projects
- Hand dystonia research project
Trial of new technique involving sensory and motor retraining - Blepharospasm research study
Mechanical device for blepharospasm - Metabolomics research study
DYT1 dystonia research
Recently funded projects
Childhood dystonia audit. Evelina Children's Hospital, London
The Evelina has collected a substantial database of information about young people with dystonia. The project aim is to analyse this data in order to learn lessons that will result in better diagnosis, treatment and support for affected children in the future. The project will be run by Dr Jean-Pierre Lin, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist.
Cell mechanisms of childhood dystonia. Royal Free Hospital, London.
The research project at the Free Hospital found significant data regarding the cellular processes of the genetically mutated DYT1 gene which encodes a protein called torsinA. Understanding differences of how this gene works in healthy people and people with dystonia is providing important clues as to how dystonic movements arise.
Genetic basis of cervical dystonia. Institute of Neurology, London
Research at the Institute of Neurology has used specialised electrophysiology, brain imagery and psychophysical techniques to provide a way of potentially identifying underlying genes responsible for cervical dystonia.
