MDS Podcast

Michael Zer, a professor at the Technical University of Munich and an expert in gene discovery, dives into the fascinating world of genetic dystonias. He discusses groundbreaking advancements in identifying dystonia-related genes using next-generation sequencing. The conversation uncovers critical molecular pathways that play a role in the condition, such as the integrated stress response. Zer also emphasizes the potential for translating these discoveries into effective treatments, highlighting the links between dystonia and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Dr. Alexander Lehn, a neurologist at Princess Alexandria Hospital in Brisbane, dives into functional movement disorders, shedding light on brain activity and risk factors. He discusses the critical aspects of building specialized clinics and the importance of thorough patient histories. The conversation highlights predictive coding and its role in recovery, along with ongoing research from the Functional Movement Disorder Study Group. Lehn also examines evolving medical perspectives on these disorders, emphasizing advancements in treatment and the significance of patient communication.

The last full day of #mdscongress 2024 was packed full of sessions and other activities. Prof. Huw Morris dives into the learnings from the day and recollects the excitement surrounding the much-loved Video Challenge.

Informative plenaries, exciting grand rounds and a historical faculty dinner filled the third day of the #mdscongress. Prof. Irena Rektorova shares her favorite moments and key takeaways.

The second day of #mdscongress was filled with various sessions and activities, including the presidential lectures & networking events. Dr. Michiko Bruno shares her appreciation for MDS camaraderie, and which sessions caught her eye.

Dr. Davide Martino, a neurology expert, shares riveting insights from the first day of the MDS Congress. He delves into groundbreaking treatments for early Parkinson’s disease and the evolving role of device-aided therapies. The discussion touches on the integration of alternative medicine and the changing dynamics of levodopa use. Dr. Martino also highlights the significance of care teams in underserved areas and the promising impact of artificial intelligence on movement disorders, alongside emotional moments from an inspiring opening ceremony.

Dr. Jennifer Goldman, an expert in Parkinson's disease research, shares her insights on subjective cognitive complaints and their prevalence in the condition. She discusses the complex relationship between these complaints and neuropsychiatric symptoms, highlighting gender differences and treatment implications. The conversation also delves into how educational background might influence awareness of cognitive issues, and the critical disconnect between subjective experiences and objective cognitive assessments. Goldman emphasizes the need for comprehensive evaluations to effectively address these challenges.

Professor Günther Deuschl, a movement disorders expert, and Dr. Robin Wolke, a researcher on levodopa, delve into groundbreaking insights from their award-winning article. They discuss the pivotal role of levodopa responsiveness in predicting outcomes of subthalamic deep brain stimulation. The conversation highlights challenges in patient selection and advocates for personalized medicine to enhance treatment effectiveness, particularly for freezing symptoms. Their research emphasizes the heterogeneous nature of Parkinson's disease and the need for tailored treatment strategies.

Dr. Bahne Bahners, a 2024 MDS Junior Award Winner, discusses the path that led him to his chosen research topic and award. He shares the results of this novel investigation that studies the electrophysiological fingerprint of STN DBS clinical outcomes using local field potential and magnetoencephalography recordings.

Dr. Edwin Jabbari, a 2024 MDS Junior Award Winner, joins the MDS Podcast to share the results of his award-winning work on the development of a 4-repeat tau SAA and what led him to this work. He also shares helpful tips for other junior researchers.