Current Research

UCSF MS EPIC Study

For more than a decade, the UCSF EPIC study has been dedicated to expanding the knowledge, and unlocking the mysteries, of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Since 2004, we have carefully followed over 500 people with MS with the purpose of identifying factors that control the evolution of this illness. This has lead to remarkable gains in our understanding of how MS progresses over time, highlighting key factors that influence, and even predict, outcomes on an individual level. These findings not only help us to understand the science behind the disease, but more importantly, allows us to provide a precise approach to patient care. To get more information regarding the UCSF EPIC study visit our website. 

 

Neuronal Determinants of Motor Disability in MS

The purpose of this study is to better understand the link between motor disability and neuronal tissue injury in brains and spinal cords of patients with Multiple Sclerosis. This information will lead to better outcome measures to understand treatment response and potentially provide predictors of future motor disability.

 

Parkinson’s Disease MRI Biomarkers

The purpose of the study is to use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate differences in the brain and spinal cord of patients with and without Parkinson’s Disease. Markers ofParkinson’s Disease visible on MRI could potentially provide predictors of future disability. This information will lead to the development of more effective clinical trials of disease modifying therapies and studies of disease progression.

 

Methodological Studies of MRI of the Human Brain

This is a research study about magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning techniques, where refining the ways in which we scan can hopefully lead to better image quality. The purpose of this study is to test improvements in MR imaging techniques. These improved techniques will be used to increase our understanding of brain structure and function.