The Visual Snow Initiative (VSI) recently released video highlights from its latest VSI Roundtable Discussion, featuring some of the world’s leading researchers dedicated to understanding and addressing Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS). VSI regularly hosts roundtable discussions with members of its Global Research Team, including researchers, clinicians, scientists, and advocates from around the world. These experts collaborate on awareness, education, resources, recognition, and evidence-based treatment options for VSS, with the ultimate goal of finding a cure. The VSI Roundtable provides a platform for experts to share their latest research, exchange ideas, and explore the key questions driving Visual Snow Syndrome studies. Many of the scientists, clinicians, and innovators involved work in their own specialized areas, but through VSI’s facilitation, the VSI team and collaborators are able to connect across disciplines, gain a deeper understanding of VSS, share knowledge, explore potential treatments, and develop guidance and resources to support those affected.
Hosted by VSI Founder and medical advocate Sierra Domb, the discussion features a panel of Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) experts from around the world, many of whom pioneered the earliest research, contributed to key milestones in the recognition and understanding of the condition, and continue to lead advancements in their field. The panel includes Dr. Christoph Schankin, Dr. Peter Goadsby, Dr. Edward Boyden, Dr. Francesca Puledda, Prof. Osvaldo Gervasi, Prof. Damiano Perri, Dr. Owen White, Dr. Sui Wong, and Dr. Alexander Baldwin. Together, they provide updates on ongoing studies, share recent findings, and explore the critical questions that continue to drive VSS research forward.
What Visual Snow Syndrome Experts Discussed
The Visual Snow Initiative roundtable covered a wide range of topics in understanding and addressing VSS. One major focus was brain hyperactivity, which may help explain why the visual system remains unusually active in people with VSS. The experts also discussed diet, vitamins, and supplements, clarifying what current research supports and where further studies are needed.
Another key topic was biomarkers and potential treatments (both pharmacological and non-invasive). Researchers shared progress on identifying measurable biological markers while investigating potential medication and drug targets. They also examined connections between VSS, HPPD, and migraine with aura, highlighting similarities and differences that could inform future therapies.
The discussion further explored whether the term “Visual Snow Syndrome” accurately reflects the condition and how researchers prefer it to be classified. The panel addressed genetics and molecular research, considering how certain genetic patterns may contribute to VSS and what this could mean for personalized treatment approaches.
Emerging therapies were also a focus, including neuromodulation and innovative tools such as VR and AR visual simulations, which help researchers better understand the VSS experience and communicate it effectively to clinicians and the public. The experts discussed whether controlled “visual noise” could help the brain adapt, and examined the role of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) in managing symptoms by modulating dysfunctional pathways in the brain related to salience and visual processing.
The roundtable also highlighted the ongoing challenges patients face in describing their experiences and explored how VSS affects children. A key moment of the discussion was the launch of VSI4Kids, a new website created by the Visual Snow Initiative providing dedicated resources and support for young patients and their families.
Throughout the conversation, each expert emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge, coordinating research, and keeping patients at the center of progress. By bringing these leading researchers together, VSI continues to advance the understanding of Visual Snow Syndrome, develop resources that address the many aspects of VSS, explore a range of potential treatments, including both medication-based and non-invasive, and support researchers in their ultimate goal of one day finding a cure.
Watch Video Highlights from the Latest VSI Roundtable
The full roundtable video is now available on our YouTube channel and on the Videos page of our website for anyone interested in learning more about VSS and VSI’s efforts. We thank our incredible supporters and invite the community to watch, share, and stay informed about our latest collaborative research, emerging insights, and resources for those affected by the condition.