research

Gaming camera could aid MS treatment

3D depth-sensing camera shown to measure walking difficulties

A commonly used device found in living rooms around the world could be a cheap and effective means of evaluating the walking difficulties of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

The Microsoft Kinect is a 3D depth-sensing camera used in interactive video activities such as tennis and dancing. It can be hooked up to an Xbox gaming console or a Windows computer.

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Published: 15Aug2016

Gene mutations shown to cause form of HSP

Scientists at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital (MNI) have identified novel gene mutations that cause hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), a step forward in efforts to treat this debilitating disease.

It is estimated that between two and 10 people per 100,000 in the general population have HSP, a disease characterized by weakness or spasticity in the lower limbs. HSP is caused by mutations inherited from one or both parents.

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Published: 9May2016

May 2016 - Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

Multiple sclerosis treatment and research has long been a focus at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, known simply as The Neuro, an illustrious member of McGill University and the McGill University Health Centre. Indeed, The Neuro introduced Canada’s first MS clinic. The clinic’s highly specialized staff employs the latest research data and treatment methods in a clinical atmosphere of innovation and progress.

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Published: 2May2016

Brighter prospects for chronic pain

Researchers use optogenetics to produce pain relief by shutting off neurons with light

The potential of light as a non-invasive, highly-focused alternative to pain medication was made more apparent thanks to research conducted by scientists at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital of McGill University and the McGill University Health Centre.

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Published: 20Apr2016

Brain responses found to originate from previously unknown source

Scientists at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital at McGill University have made an important discovery about the human auditory system and how to study it, findings that could lead to better testing and diagnosis of hearing-related disorders.

The researchers detected frequency-following responses (FFR) coming from a part of the brain not previously known to emit them. FFRs are neural signals generated in the brain when people hear sounds.