In this episode, Dr. Divyani Garg converses with Prof. Kristina Simonyan on applying the standard alcohol challenge test, in combination with targeted genetic analysis in the GABAergic synapse pathways, in persons with laryngeal dystonia. Together they explore alcohol’s role in laryngeal dystonia, the genetic signatures that may predict responsiveness, and what this could mean for the future of treatment of laryngeal dystonia specifically, but also dystonia in general. Read the article.

Dr. Michele Matarazzo interviews Dr. Victor Hvingelby, the recipient of this year’s MDJ Research Article of the Year award. Together they discuss the use of PET tracers to assess microglial activation in isolated REM sleep behavior disorder and how these tools can better define prodromal Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Sarah Camargos interviews Dr. Guillaume Cogan and Prof. Alexis Brice, the corresponding authors of the article selected as the Movement Disorders Review of the Year. Listen as their conversation dives into the new sequencing technologies, and the broader diagnosis they bring to the field.

Prof. Susanne Schneider discusses all things dystonia. Listen as she reviews the revised MDS definition and classification system for dystonia, updates for neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation, and the exciting future of genetic therapies.

Dr. Alessandra Fanciulli discusses how the MDS criteria for the diagnosis of MSA has made an impact on the field, the status of biomarker research, and optimal targets for disease-modifying trials for MSA.

Dr. Lauren Jackson discusses recent clinical trials, genetic updates, and interesting research in the field of ataxia.

Functional movement disorders (FMDs) are the most common subgroup of functional neurological disorders. Prof. Selma Aybek breaks down current trends for FMDs, controversies, and treatment preferences, including implementing an interdisciplinary team.

Prof. Paul Wilmes breaks down his #mdscongress talk discussing the recent studies on the influences of the gut microbiome on PD. He also dives into future goals and what interventions may be beneficial for PD.

There have been major breakthroughs in functional neurosurgery. Prof. Jill Ostrem breaks down the latest updates in the field, specifically surrounding adaptive DBS.

Developments in neuroimaging have grown a lot over the years. Dr. Thilo van Eimeren discusses biomarker development, both in tau and alpha synuclein, current research, and his hope for future successes.

Rehabilitation for movement disorders, like PD, has become increasingly prevalent for patient care. Prof. Alice Nieuwboer discusses how technology has shaped the field, how neurologists can support patient exercise, and what future updates she looks forward to.

Due to genetic advancements, the pediatric movement disorder field is ever growing. Dr. Shekeeb Mohammad breaks down the current landscape of the field and how adult neurologists can advance their learning.

There have been nearly 30 years of disease modifying trials for PD, but little success. Prof. Tanya Simuni breaks down clinical trial design for a heterogenous disease like PD and discusses the future goals and importance of a biological definition.

The field of genetics often moves quickly, making it a challenge to stay informed. Dr. Gerard Seranza breaks down the current landscape, new discoveries and technologies, and what changes we can expect in the upcoming years.

Dr. Yaroslau Compta discusses how the view of co-pathologies has changed the view of many disorders, including tauopathies. He dives into the current state of clinical trials for PSP and what those results may mean for the future of biomarkers.

Dr. Victor Fung reflects on his term as MDS President and his appreciation for the accomplishments that were achieved. He further discusses his future hopes and goals of the Society and the #mdscongress.

The last full day of the #mdscongress was full of exciting sessions and events. Dr. Laura Silveira-Moriyama shares her excitement about the keynote speaker, updates on disease modifying clinical trials, and of course, the crowd pleasing MDS Video Challenge.

Dr. Huw Morris discusses the session highlights from #mdscongress day three, which included a plenary session on protein aggregation clearance, movement disorder grand rounds, and several exciting oral platforms.

Prof. Francesca Morgante breaks down the second day of the #mdscongress which included the presidential lectures, junior awardees, and several enlightening teaching sessions.

An eventful first day of the 2025 #mdscongress has come to a close. Listen here as Dr. Davide Martino reviews the events and interesting scientific sessions for those near and far. Don’t miss out!