Visual Snow Syndrome Research Funded by the Visual Snow Initiative (VSI)
The Visual Snow Initiative (VSI) funds a diverse array of scientific research focused on advancing the understanding of Visual Snow Syndrome and improving its management, with the ultimate goal of identifying a cure. All donations to VSI directly fund research on Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS).
VSI was founded on the principle of fostering global research collaboration for VSS. Since its inception, VSI has initiated the first-ever collaborations among VSS researchers, and continues to connect them, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, sharing of ideas, and ongoing progress in VSS research.
VSI’s Global Research Team evaluates and supports the most promising research proposals, informed by the expertise of leading VSS specialists. Given the high volume of submissions, VSI prioritizes projects with the greatest potential for impactful scientific and clinical outcomes.
Each research initiative contributes to the broader scientific understanding of VSS while providing practical resources to help individuals manage symptoms and improve quality of life in the interim, as the search for a cure progresses. The data generated is also essential for identifying safe and effective treatments for symptoms, including pharmacological, non-invasive, and accessible approaches, tailored to the diverse symptoms, preferences, and medical histories of individuals with VSS.
For any studies involving medication, VSI collaborates with global researchers who specialize in both the complexities of VSS and pharmacology—expertise essential for ensuring the research is conducted safely and with a comprehensive understanding of the condition.
To date, VSI has funded groundbreaking research in seven countries, which has led to the clinical and scientific recognition of VSS as a distinct neurological condition, characterized by both visual and non-visual symptoms. These pioneering studies have uncovered critical insights into the biological basis and pathophysiology of VSS, while also driving the ongoing development of viable treatment options to help manage its symptoms, where none previously existed.
The insights gained from all VSI-supported research are applied to drive long-term progress toward the ultimate objective of identifying a cure.
Note: Some researchers investigate specific aspects of VSS, while others explore multiple areas, with overlapping focus and the use of similar methodologies. As such, some researchers may explore the same subjects and potential treatments simultaneously, often collaborating to maximize results. Additionally, some institutions and researchers use VSI’s platform to recruit participants for studies, including those not directly funded by VSI.
Below is an overview of Visual Snow Syndrome research projects supported by the Visual Snow Initiative.
These techniques are used to deepen the understanding of Visual Snow Syndrome and target key brain mechanisms for potential treatments.
Researchers with expertise in the complexities of Visual Snow Syndrome are investigating a potential safe and targeted medication for the condition.
This intervention is focused on enhancing neuron-visual function, reducing symptoms, and improving quality of life for individuals with Visual Snow Syndrome.
This method aims to alter the brain’s visual and extra-visual networks, as well as neural pathways, in order to improve symptoms and overall quality of life for individuals with Visual Snow Syndrome.
Multiple researchers in England, Switzerland, Russia, and the USA are exploring this non-invasive technique, which may improve symptoms and address visual dysfunction associated with Visual Snow Syndrome.
Researchers across Europe, primarily in Switzerland, are investigating a combination of methods, specifically transcranial alternating current stimulation and electroencephalography, which target overactive brain networks to alleviate Visual Snow Syndrome symptoms.
