Abstract:

The Monash University Diagnostic and Neuro-signal Processing Group research has resulted in the identification of biomarkers derived from Electrovestibulography (EVestG) recordings as indicators of various neurological disorders.  In particular, it has been demonstrated that EVestG may have potential as a diagnostic tool for the early detection of Parkinson’s disease and Depression. EVestG is an adaptation of Electrocochleography (ECochG) which can involve an electrode consisting of a wick being placed on the tympanic membrane and recordings being made from it. In parallel to EVestG, another technique, named Frontal Brain asymmetry (FBA), has been used previously by Monash University researchers as a method for diagnosis of Depression. This technique records Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals from frontal brain lobes and gives a measure of asymmetry observed in left and right sides.

This study aims to determine the broader applicability of EVestG and FBA techniques, to other neurological disorders, in particular Schizophrenia. The reason for this proposal is research-based as there is a scientific hypothesis to suggest that EVestG and FBA both potentially also capable of diagnosing Schizophrenia (refer to section ‎4.1 and ‎4.2).  In addition, we believe an objective and validated diagnostic technique would speed new drug developments. Further, the availability of a validated, objective and quantified diagnostic tool would allow the treating physician to show their client physical evidence of improvements in brain functioning following medication so as to create confidence in their patients to be in full compliance and committed to their drug regimen.