The Visual Snow Initiative (VSI) is excited to announce a collaboration with Sechenov University, one of Russia’s leading medical institutions. This partnership advances VSI’s mission to enhance awareness, deepen scientific understanding, and develop clinical solutions for Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) on an international scale.
This collaboration brings together a distinguished team of researchers, clinicians, and advocates from VSI and Sechenov University, all focused on refining the diagnosis and treatment of VSS.
Sechenov’s University’s Published Research
Researchers from Sechenov University
Dr. Evgeniy Sokolov
Dr. Evgeniy Sokolov is a neurologist and clinical researcher with expertise in cephalology and various disorders. His research is focused on advancing the treatment of VSS and improving patient care. Dr. Sokolov has contributed to the development of non-invasive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and personalized pharmacotherapy protocols for neurological conditions that are refractory to traditional treatments.
His clinical research includes studies on the relationship between migraines and suicide risk, furthering the understanding of the psychological impact of chronic pain. Dr. Sokolov is also dedicated to educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns, having created platforms such as a Telegram channel focused on neurology and headache disorders. He seeks to establish evidence-based guidelines for the management of VSS and related neurological conditions.
“Visual Snow Syndrome is more than a medical condition – it’s a call to rethink how we approach neurological health. Through innovation, collaboration, and relentless advocacy, we can give patients the clarity and hope they deserve.”
Dr. Artem Pyatkov
Dr. Artem Pyatkov, Head of the Department of Neurophysiology at Sechenov University, is a leading authority on functional neurophysiology. His clinical and scientific research focuses on the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a treatment for various pain syndromes, including VSS. Dr. Pyatkov’s research on the brain’s cortical processes, particularly those involved in facilitation and inhibition, is vital for understanding the potential therapeutic applications of TMS in managing VSS.
With advanced training in neurology and pathophysiology, Dr. Pyatkov has contributed extensively to research on autonomic regulation in patients with psychovegetative disorders and pain syndromes. His work in TMS research holds promise for expanding therapeutic options for individuals living with VSS.
Dr. Anastasia Kononirova
Dr. Anastasia Kononirova is a neurologist and neurophysiologist at Sechenov University and the Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies. Her clinical focus is on diseases of the central and peripheral nervous systems, with a particular emphasis on neuromuscular disorders, emergency neurology, and neurogenetics. Dr. Kononirova underscores the importance of accurate diagnosis in the effective management of VSS and its neurological manifestations.
As a member of both the European Academy of Neurology and the European Stroke Organization, Dr. Kononirova is at the forefront of initiatives aimed at raising global awareness of VSS, decreasing its associated stigma, and improving patient access to care.
“Proper treatment begins with a proper diagnosis. Raising global awareness of Visual Snow Syndrome among clinicians and the public, as well as leading awareness campaigns to destigmatize VSS, is important and necessary.”
Dr. Azaliya Nurmeeva
Dr. Azaliya Nurmeeva, an ophthalmologist and researcher, is the head of Sechenov University’s student scientific society for eye diseases, “Sechenov’s Eye.” Her published work includes studies on modern approaches to combined cataract and glaucoma surgery, as well as diagnostic questionnaires for lacrimal duct obstructions.
In collaboration with other researchers, Dr. Nurmeeva co-authored a literature review on the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in VSS and functional disorders of visual perception, which was published in the Russian Journal of Pain. Her work explores the therapeutic potential of TMS for patients with VSS and associated visual disorders.
Dr. Alexey Sergeev
Dr. Alexey Sergeev is a Ph.D. in Medical Sciences and Senior Researcher at the National Research and Clinical Center of Neurology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University. With over 15 years of professional experience, Dr. Sergeev has become a leading figure in the study of headache, migraine, and pain disorders, contributing to more than 100 scientific publications.
He is a co-author of the National Neurology Guidelines and the Russian Ministry of Health’s clinical recommendations on migraine and tension-type headaches for both children and adults. Additionally, he has contributed to international guidelines on diagnostic methods for headaches and pediatric headache management. His research interests include Visual Snow Syndrome, migraine, tension-type headaches, TACs, post-traumatic headaches, and orofacial pain syndromes in both pediatric and adult population.
Advancing VSS Research and Advocacy: Ongoing Collaboration with Sechenov University
Together, the Visual Snow Initiative and Sechenov University aim to advance the scientific understanding, clinical management, and global advocacy for patients living with VSS. Through continued innovation, collaboration, and advocacy, we strive to improve outcomes for those affected by VSS.
For more information about VSI’s research initiatives and collaborations, visit the Visual Snow Initiative.
