MDS Podcast

Prof. Marina de Koning-Tijssen interviews Dr. Christos Ganos on the differential diagnosis of myoclonus. Dr. Ganos explains how he distinguishes between jerky movements based on clinical history and examination, and discusses the differential diagnosis across various parts of the body.

Dr. Hugo Morales Briceno interviews Prof. David Devos from the University of Lille, France, about the results of the phase 1/2 clinical trial using intracerebroventricular anaerobic dopamine in Parkinson’s disease with L-dopa-related complications. Read the article.

Prof. Marina de Koning-Tijssen interviews Professors Anna Latorre and Shabbir Merchant on the topic of electrophysiology, with a focus on cortical myoclonus. Together they discuss the potential applications of electrophysiology for myoclonus in clinical practice. They also explore the complex interface between cortical myoclonus and epilepsy.

Dr. Michele Matarazzo interviews Prof. Irena Rektorová about her recent study on early changes in the locus coeruleus in mild cognitive impairment with Lewy bodies. Using neuromelanin-sensitive MRI, the study reveals selective vulnerability of the caudal locus coeruleus and its association with specific cognitive and other nonmotor features. The conversation explores the implications for early diagnosis, the “body-first” hypothesis, and the potential role of NM-MRI as a biomarker. Read the article.

Prof. Marina de Koning-Tijssen interviews Prof. John Caviness on the topic of myoclonus, focusing on its new classification and treatment. They discuss the long-awaited recently published classification of myoclonus and explore the latest treatment options.

On this special World Parkinson’s Day episode, Dr. Michele Matarazzo is joined by John Dean—speech-language pathologist and Chair of the MDS Allied Health Professionals Group—to explore the essential roles of care partners, allied health professionals, and the broader Parkinson’s community. From physiotherapists to family members, we shine a light on the many people who support those living with Parkinson’s disease every day. World Parkinson's Day

Dr. Sara Schaefer discusses with Dr. Michelle Fullard the similarities and differences in how men and women with Parkinson's disease approach the decision of whether or not to undergo deep brain stimulation. Read the article.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Tom Foltynie from University College London delves into a recent phase 3 clinical trial of exenatide for Parkinson’s disease. Despite disappointment in the results, he examines potential reasons behind the discrepancies from earlier studies. Foltynie explores how GLP-1 agonists could still play a vital role in early-stage Parkinson’s treatment and details advancements in clinical trial designs, which may pave the way for more effective therapies. Tune in for insights into the future of Parkinson’s research!

Prof. Sarah Camargos interviews Prof. Sun Ju Chung about his recent paper in the Movement Disorders Journal investigating diagnostic and prognostic capabilities of measuring blood mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA-CN) for Parkinson’s disease. Journal CME is available until March 3, 2026 Read the article.

Join Dr. Davide Martino, a neurology professor and expert in neuromodulation, as he shares groundbreaking insights on using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to manage Tourette syndrome. He highlights the barriers in current treatments and compares tDCS with TMS, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and patient ease. The discussion delves into how targeting the supplementary motor area has shown promise in reducing motor tics and urges. Tune in for a deep dive into innovative therapies shaping the future of Tourette care!