Centers of Excellence

In September the Tyler’s Hope for a Dystonia Cure Foundation announced that Duke University has received the organization’s highest honor for excellence in research, education, and service. To receive this designation, Duke demonstrated a focus on dystonia as a neurological movement disorder and achieved significant breakthroughs in the science towards finding a cure.

This new partnership with Duke will strengthen their efforts to find a cure for all people with dystonia. Dr. Nicole Calakos and colleagues of the Duke University School of Medicine in Neurogenetics discovered that 18 FDA-approved medications have the potential to correct cellular and brain abnormalities associated with dystonia. Further analysis of the 18 medications revealed that ritonavir had the greatest potential.

This scientific discovery, in addition to the infrastructure provides both clinical treatment and research in dystonia. The institution also provides resources to develop the next generation or researchers and clinicians in dystonia through the robust fellowship program.