Development of a Novel Functional Eye-Tracking Software Application for Multiple Sclerosis
This research is developing a new, gentle software tool that uses eye movements to help understand Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The goal is to track how MS progresses and how it affects thinking and memory skills. Participants will complete short computer tasks that test these skills and also have their eye movements measured as they look at visual patterns. The information gathered will be used to create clever computer programs (called machine learning algorithms) that can identify patterns in eye movements linked to MS. Ultimately, the software aims to provide a more accurate way to monitor MS and the changes it can cause over time, helping us better understand the condition.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is focused on developing an innovative software application that uses eye-tracking technology. Imagine a computer program that can understand how your eyes move and, from that, learn more about your Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how it might be affecting your thinking and memory. That's the exciting goal of this research.
Researchers know that MS can sometimes affect cognitive functions – things like attention, memory, and how quickly you process information. They are also aware that MS can sometimes impact how your eyes move. This study will involve people doing simple tasks on a computer, designed to test these thinking skills, while their eye movements are carefully measured. The aim is to see if there's a connection between specific eye movement patterns and how MS is affecting a person's cognitive abilities.
The information collected from these eye-tracking measurements and cognitive tests will be fed into advanced computer programs. These programs will learn to recognise patterns, helping the researchers create and refine the new software. The hope is that this new tool will provide a sensitive and non-invasive (meaning it doesn't involve needles or surgery) way to monitor the progression of MS and track any associated changes in thinking and memory, offering a new avenue for understanding and managing the condition.
Key takeaways
- This study is creating new eye-tracking software for MS.
- It aims to better understand MS progression and cognitive changes.
- Participation involves eye-tracking and short computer tasks.
- It's a single-visit research study, not a treatment.
- Your contribution helps advance MS research.
- You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and able to understand and sign a consent form. You should also be able to read in either French or English. Your vision needs to be reasonably good (even with glasses or contact lenses) so you can properly take part in the eye tests.
If you have a diagnosis of MS, it's important that your condition has been stable for the past six months, with no recent worsening of your physical symptoms. You also shouldn't be experiencing an MS relapse or have had one in the last three months. Your overall health condition should be stable during the study visit, and your level of disability (as assessed by doctors) should be within a certain range.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have other neurological conditions (besides MS) or certain eye conditions that could affect your eye movements, or if you have specific mental health conditions that also impact movement, you might not be suitable. Also, if you've recently started, changed the dose of, or aren't regularly taking certain medications that can affect eye movements, you might not be able to participate. This study is not for people with certain types of MS, like Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS), Radiologically Isolated Syndrome (RIS), or Primary Progressive MS (PPMS).
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Can you read in either English or French?
- Is your vision good enough to see a computer screen (with glasses/contacts)?
- If you have MS, has your condition been stable for the last 6 months?
- Are you currently not experiencing an MS relapse?
- You do not have other serious neurological or specific eye conditions that affect eye movements.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will have one visit to the research site. During this visit, you will spend time completing some short computer-based tests designed to check your thinking and memory skills. You will also participate in eye-tracking assessments, where your eye movements will be measured as you look at various visual patterns on a screen. There are no medications to take as part of this study, and no follow-up visits are typically planned after your initial assessment. The total time commitment for participation is expected to be limited to this single visit.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- The NeuroVerified postcodeMontreal, Canada· Recruiting
- Genge Partners, Inc.Verified postcodeMontreal, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is eye-tracking software?
It's a computer program that measures and records how your eyes move, like where you look and how long you focus on things.
Will this study cure my MS?
No, this study is about developing a new tool to understand MS better, not a treatment or cure.
Do I need to stop my current MS medications to join?
No, you should continue your prescribed MS medications as usual. However, some other specific medications might affect your eligibility.
How long will my visit to the study site last?
The study involves a single visit, but the exact duration will be explained by the study team.
Will I get my test results?
The study aims to develop software for research; individual results may not be shared, but check with the study team.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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