The Nystagmus Network was once again proud to host the International Nystagmus Symposium online on Friday 25 October 2024.
The schedule included presentations from seven eminent speakers including actor and charity ambassador, Gerard McDermott, representing the voice of the nystagmus patient alongside researchers and clinicians.
The wide-ranging selection of speakers took delegates on the nystagmus journey from the patient experience and impact on quality of life, through an examination of potential therapies, a study of a particular manifestation of Acquired Nystagmus, through genetic sequencing to an expose of theories on the origins and causes of nystagmus.
In addition, we heard from the winner of the inaugural Richard Wilson Essay Prize, Miss Justine Chan from the University of Cambridge who explained most eloquently how her research into the genetics of nystagmus for her essay has led her to wish to pursue a career as an academic-clinician.
89 delegates from as far afield as the USA, the Far East, Asia, South America, Australia and from all corners of Europe, registered to attend, listened intently, plied our speakers with questions and took part in discussions between the presentations.
Comments from delegates after the symposium included:
“It is super insightful which helps me understand more about different symptoms of nystagmus, current research areas, clinical trials, case study, etc. It provides great foundation for my research on bioengineering treatments for nystagmus patients.”
“A great opportunity to network with colleagues and learn about recent research in the field.”
“That was amazing! I’m surprised by the high scientific level and for updated approaches on nystagmus, above all about the research field and acquired nystagmus. ”
Once again the Nystagmus Network as been honoured by the support of the research, scientific, clinical and academic communities and would like to thank, in particular, our guest speakers:
Actor Gerard McDermott on his own experience of infantile nystagmus and that of Jackie, who now lives with acquired nystagmus
Mr Noah Clancy, University of Southampton on measuring visual and quality of life outcomes in nystagmus; a scoping review
Mr Adam Melvin, University College Isle of Man on a multi-methods study of the impact of nystagmus on the lived experience of adults with the condition in an island community
Miss Justine Chan, University of Cambridge on how my research into the underlying genetic causes of infantile nystagmus has influenced my aspirations to be an academic-clinician
Dr Mahesh Raj Joshi, University of Plymouth on motion and shape perception in infantile nystagmus syndrome
Dr John Chan, University College London Hospitals on a case series of Periodic Alternating Nystagmus in Chiari 1 malformation
Dr Laura L Johnson, University of Minnesota on comparative RNA-seq analysis of the extraocular muscles in C57BL/6 and mice with nystagmus
Professor Chris Harris, Plymouth Royal Eye Infirmary on how Ocular Motor Reciprocal Innervation holds the clue for INS
Last but not least, our thanks go to our two wonderful co-chairs, Professor Jon Erichsen from the University of Cardiff and Mr Jay Self from University Hospital Southampton. The success of the symposium rests on their generosity in contributing their time, knowledge and expertise and on their most excellent time-keeping!
Enquiries about the International Nystagmus Symposium 2025 to [email protected]
You can make a donation to nystagmus research here
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