Eye Movement Abnormalities in Brain Diseases

Eye tracking technologies have evolved from electro-oculographic and magnetic search coil methods to sophisticated digital video-based analytic technologies, and are pivotal tools for analyzing oculomotor functions. Quantitative eye tracking approaches provide vital insights into understanding eye movements, the control of the visual system for ‘seeing’, and the underlying sensorimotor brain circuits and neurocognitive processes that drive those functions. Advancements in artificial intelligence and Virtual Reality have transformed these tools into non-invasive diagnostic platforms for detecting eye movement abnormalities through 3D eye movement analysis. Particularly in disorders like Huntington’s disease, Atypical Parkinsonian disorders, demyelinating diseases, neurodevelopmental diseases, and traumatic brain injury, eye movement irregularities reveal critical markers due to the disease-specific impact on the brain’s oculomotor control regions. Such advancements enable precise assessments of disease progression, treatment efficacy, and the neurobiological foundations of brain disorders. This ongoing integration of technology and neuroscience holds significant promise for enhancing our understanding and management of neurological ailments.

Goal
This Research Topic aims to probe deeply into the untapped potential of eye tracking technology, enriched by artificial intelligence and virtual reality to explore new links between eye movement patterns and brain disorders. The primary objective is to foster ground-breaking studies that may uncover novel, non-invasive diagnostic approaches, enhance disease management strategies, and improve overall outcomes for conditions manifesting through ocular disturbances. Ultimately, the intention is to stimulate the creation of innovative technologies and AI models that significantly advance diagnostic and therapeutic practices.

Scope and information for authors
We welcome submissions of various types of manuscripts supported by the journal (including Original Research, Reviews, Brief Research Reports, Perspectives, Protocols, Mini-Review, etc.). These manuscripts should contribute towards expanding the horizons of eye-tracking clinical and research applications and related technologies in diagnosing and managing brain diseases. Potential themes include but are not limited to:
- Advancements in eye-tracking systems
- Exploration of eye movements in correlation with neurocognitive processes
- Use of eye tracking to understand the neurobiological basis of brain diseases
- Novelty in eye tracking measures and clinical significance
- Differential diagnosis of diseases with a similar phenotype

Authors should highlight their research’s clinical implications and significance, aiming for a balance between technological innovation and practical usability in a clinical setting.

Articles accepted after peer review will be published and appear online as soon as approved for publication.

Dr. Owen White is the Chief Medical Officer at BrainEye. Dr. Tim Anderson is the director and shareholder of Christchurch Neurology Trials Limited (CNTL) and Anderson Neurology Ltd. Dr. Sui Wong has received consultancy fees for Argenx and Immunovant, Inc. Dr. Carey David Balaban declares no competing interests with regards to the Research Topic subject.

Keywords: eye movements, brain diseases, eye tracking, neurocognitive disorders, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, oculomotor dysfunction, diagnostics, neurobiology, neurocognitive processes

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.