Researchers at Vanderbilt Health are trying to understand the nature and impact of sensory processing in Tourette syndrome.  Over 80% of adults with Tourette syndrome experience heightened awareness of sensations.  This heightened awareness is often bothersome to those affected by it. Much remains unknown about the cause of heightened sensory awareness in Tourette syndrome and its relationship to tics and other symptoms.

The Center for Tourette Syndrome and Other Tic Disorders is leading a study to find out more about sensory processing in Tourette syndrome.  The center is recruiting two groups of adults for this study:

  • adults with Tourette syndrome who have no history of autism spectrum disorder, developmental delay, cerebral palsy, schizophrenia, or psychotic disorder
  • healthy adults who have no history of Tourette syndrome or mental health diagnoses

The study is in particular need of adult men 20-45 years old.

All participants will be asked to attend two study sessions.  The first study session consists of a medical history and neurologic examination, as well as surveys on sensory experiences, mood, and other mental health symptoms. The session should last 1.5-2 hours. The second study session consists of recording brain activity with an electroencephalogram (EEG) in three scenarios: feeling a puff of air, listening to sounds, and resting comfortably. An EEG is a non-invasive way to monitor brain activity. It involves placement of a cap of electrodes on the scalp. The second study session will take 2 hours. If preferred by participants, the two study sessions can be combined into a single study visit lasting 3.5-4 hours. All study-related information will remain confidential. This study has been approved by the Vanderbilt Institutional Review Board (IRB).

Individuals will be compensated $40 per session ($80 total) for participating. To receive compensation, participants must provide their social security number, as required by the federal government.

If you are interested in participating in this study or have questions or concerns about the study, please contact Michelle Eckland via phone (615-875-7394) or email (michelle.r.eckland.1@vumc.org).