Gowri Jayaram

Whitaker International Fellow, 2008-09

Home Institution: Northwestern University

Host Country, Institution: United Kingdom, University of Oxford; University College of London

Project Title: Post-Stroke Therapy Selection Using Magnetic Resonance Tractography and Non-Invasive Stimulation

Project Abstract:

Stroke is currently the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States. Of the 86% of people that survive, one out of three will never be an independent community walker. The prescription of walking protocols post stroke is not based on an understanding of the pathophysiology of individuals' recovering motor system. There is a compelling need to develop an algorithm for tailoring walking rehabilitation therapy to individuals based on their recovering anatomical and physiological substrates. This approach is expected to result in a much larger increase in walking recovery than is currently achieved. In the proposed project I will work with Dr. Johansen-Berg at the University of Oxford and Prof. Rothwell at the University College of London (UK). We will assess associations between cortical activity, probabilistic Diffusion Tensor tractography estimates of cortical tract integrity, and lower limb movement post-stroke. Combining these skills with non-invasive brain stimulation will enable me to develop an algorithm for prescribing the appropriate combination of stimulation and movement therapy based on an individual's motor tract integrity and physiology, thus maximizing their potential for walking recovery.