The purpose of this study is to develop an imaging biomarker (i.e. imaging tool) for Primary Torsion Dystonia (PTD). We anticipate that this biomarker will be used in future clinical trials to assess new therapies for this disorder. This research will also provide insight into the functional changes and learning abnormalities in dystonia patients.

To develop the biomarker we will measure different types of  brain function using a special type of brain imaging technique called Positron Emission Tomography (PET). With PET, we can measure blood flow in the brain and examine how certain areas of the brain are activated during the performance of a series of tasks. We will also take measurements of brain function by using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI).