The Friedman Brain Institute

Our faculty members in The Friedman Brain Institute are recognized leaders in research into the genetic basis of dystonia and Parkinson's disease. A major focus of their research is mutations in the LRRK2 and GBA genes, as well as identifying novel genes that confer disease risk.

Scientists in this research area include:

• Fanny Elahi, MD, PhD
• Rachel Saunders-Pullman, MD, MPH, MS

Our scientists are investigating the molecular and cellular basis of Parkinson's disease in animal models and human induced pluripotent stem cells, with a focus on the role of autophagy in disease pathogenesis and early changes in synaptic neurophysiology and plasticity as a basis for cognitive, psychiatric, and motor symptoms of the disease. Coordinated research with teams in genetics and neurology is helping to understand how LRRK2, GBA, VPS35 and other mutations lead to disease onset, progression, and severity. Closely related research is investigating the relationship between brain changes and genetic factors in humans with spasmodic dysphonia, a form of focal dystonia.

Scientists in this research area include:

• Deanna L. Benson, PhD
• Michelle Ehrlich, MD
• Fanny Elahi, MD, PhD 
• George W. Huntley, PhD
• Zhenyu Yue, PhD

Numerous clinical trials are underway within the Mount Sinai Health System on more effective treatments for a range of movement disorders, in particular, Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and essential tremor.

Our extensive clinical trials for movement disorders evaluate and recruits patients for novel clinical research protocols that have been developed to study the effectiveness of new treatments. Patients who participate in our clinical trials have access to the latest experimental evaluations and therapies, as well as ongoing clinical care.

Physicians in this research area include:

• Susan Bressman, MD
• Martijn Figee, MD, PhD
• Joohi Jimenez-Shahed, MD
• Rachel Saunders-Pullman, MD, MPH, MS