MDS Podcast

Dr. Rick Helmich tells us about the role of functional MRI in understanding the circuits of tremor. The conversation starts with a description of his most famous theory on the pathophysiology of Parkinsonism tremor ('dimmer-switch' hypothesis) and moves towards other forms of tremors, such as dystonic, Holmes and essential and even physiological tremor.

Dr. Anna Latorre is interviewed by Dr. Sara Schaefer about her study exploring the role of transcutaneous spinal cord simulation for suppression of postural tremor in essential tremor, including the potential pathophysiological mechanisms and implications for therapeutic use.

Journal CME is available until October 21, 2025

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In the introductory episode for the Tremor Special Series, Dr. Elan Louis tells us about the epidemiology of tremor as well as patients' and health care providers' awareness (or lack thereof). He guides us through his journey from when his mentor suggested that he'd look into familial essential tremor to the most important discoveries of the last two decades. Finally he gives us a glimpse of what's about to come and why tremor matters.

Prof. Alessio Di Fonzo shares the results of his award winning, multi-center work examining genetic data from people with early-onset PD in hopes of highlighting the difficulties in interpreting genetic variants emerging from NGS-multigene panels.

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Dr. Hannah E. Reese and Mr. W. Alan Brown discuss their pilot study of a mindfulness-based group virtual intervention for tic disorders, that was co-developed with patients.

Journal CME is available until August 21, 2025

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Dr. Alexander Lehn breaks down functional movement disorders; what is happening in the brain, what are the potential risk factors and what future treatments and clinical trials we have to look forward to.

Prof. Brit Mollenhauer shares her excitement about basic science, including biomarker research, and how she believes MDS’s diversity can help foster more collaboration between clinicians and basic scientists.

Prof. Michael Zech takes a dive into his talk on gene discovery in dystonia. He explains how new findings can provide insight into the pathophysiology of dystonia and improve patient care and treatment.

Dr. Kishore Kumar shares the new genes associated with Parkinson's disease, dystonia, and ataxia. He also shares how new technologies, like long read sequencing, can assist in finding epigenetic changes.

Dr. Victor Fung sat down with Dr. Michele Matarazzo at the #mdscongress to reflect on the advice from his predecessors and how that is helping him achieve his goals as MDS President.