Integrative Training Approach for Inducing Neuroplasticity in Multiple Sclerosis
This pilot study proposes a clinical trial to target treatment of sensorimotor and cognitive deficits in persons with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS). The proposal has the potential to promote neuroplasticity and induce re-normalization in brain to muscle (cortico-muscular) connectivity (BMC) and within brain connectivity via an integrative training approach. Preliminary data and published work are available to inform specific aspects of the proposed trial, along with the general rationale for exploring the suggested rehabilitation approach. However, there is a gap in research on the effects of training that uses the proposed approach via a clinical trial (of any phase) in pwMS to support the rationale for exploring the suggested rehabilitation training approach. Moreover, there is no pilot data on the training itself in the same population. This study will examine the behavioral deficits and neural characteristics in children with MS and two other related conditions (Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG) and Nueromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD)) to understand if they would benefit from rehabilitation training conditions tested in aims 1 and 2. The overall long term goal is to improve rehabilitation training conditions for both adults and children with MS.
• Age 18 to 80 yrs Clinically definite MS diagnosis Ability to attend to computer screen and follow instructions in English which will be assessed by MiniMental test requiring a participant to score \>24 (out of 30 max score) Right-handed as determined by research diagnostic criteria of the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory (Oldfield 1971) Self report of normal or corrected-to-normal vision