A new project studying neurostimulation in ataxia

This study, based at the Institute of Neurology, University College London, is led by Neuroscientist Dr Tim West, and funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Rosetrees Trust.  

The cerebellum is a part of the brain that plays a critical role in coordination. When the cerebellum is affected in people with ataxia this causes impaired coordination, for which there is no current treatment. This study aims to gain understanding of brain signals that cause coordination problems for people with spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs), Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), Cerebellar Multiple System Atrophy (MSA-C), idiopathic late-onset cerebellar ataxias and other types of confirmed cerebellar ataxias.  

In this project, study participants will undertake non-invasive investigations including MRI brain scan to look at the structure of the brain, portable magnetoencephalography (MEG) and electroencephalography (EEG) to look at brain activity, and surface electromyography (EMG) to look at muscle activity, to understand how changes in the brain lead to impaired coordination. 

The study will also evaluate whether targeted non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) of the cerebellum improves coordination in people with ataxia. Some participants will therefore go on to receive electrical brain stimulation. NIBS involves applying small sticky pads (electrodes) to the scalp which influence brain cell activity with a very small electrical current in a gentle and non-invasive way. Dr West and his team will trial delivering brain stimulation in a novel and tailored way, based on the specific brain activity of individuals. The effect of brain stimulation on coordination will then be studied. Findings from people with ataxia will be compared to those of people without ataxia. Results from this research could help with future development of treatments for ataxia. Recruitment for the study is expected to begin in 2026. 

The researchers want to ensure that people affected by ataxia are involved throughout the project. Ataxia UK have therefore partnered with the group to help provide input from people with ataxia. We are currently looking for a small number of people with ataxia and caregivers to join the study’s advisory board. Being a member of the advisory board will involve attending two meetings per year (1 hour each, held online), and participants will be reimbursed for their time. The project will last for 4 years. The advisory board will also include researchers and clinicians, and no previous experience is required. Please note that taking part in the advisory board does not necessarily mean you can take part in the research project. 

If you are interested in being a member of the advisory board then please email the Ataxia UK research team on research@ataxia.org.uk to discuss.