Bee multiple sclerose (MS) disorders in hand and gait function are common, but not always at the same time. To explain these differences, Myrte Strik studied patterns of brain damage and communication between different brain regions, the brain network. In her doctoral research, Strik saw extensive brain damage and less active areas of the brain in people who could still move well. In people with more severe disease, deterioration of hand function was found to be related to specific patterns of disturbed network function. These patterns were different when walking function deteriorated. A disturbed hand and walking function apparently arises due to other processes in the brain.
The cause of movement disorders in MS originates in the spinal cord. Damage to the nerves in the spinal cord causes problems with movement of the arms and legs. Strik shows that network abnormalities in the brain also cause disability. For her research, Strik used data from the Amsterdam MS Cohort. That’s 350 people with MS who have been monitored since 2004. In addition, Strik in Melbourne, Australia examined data from a second cohort of people with minimal clinical disabilities.
Monday, March 15
Promotion (VU), 09.45 am online
Myrte Strik: Problems in hand function and walking related to disrupted brain network in MS
An investigation of motor disabilities in people with multiple sclerosis using advanced magnetic resonance imaging
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