The Visual Imagery Project: An Innovative Resource and Study on Symptom Relief for Visual Snow Syndrome
Visual Snow Initiative (VSI) is breaking new ground in addressing the symptoms of Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) through its latest research on the effects of repeated exposure to dynamic visual stimuli and its innovative resource, the Visual Imagery Project (VIP). The VIP established a foundational framework for future research into the neural mechanisms of VSS, emphasizing the role of motion-selective neurons, simulations, and dynamic images in shaping perception, and helping to advance research in this area.
Research Collaborations and Updates on VSS: Exploring the Impact of Dynamic Visual Stimuli
Visual Snow Initiative (VSI) launched the Visual Imagery Project (VIP) website and protocol on May 7th, 2020, which remained live until the online study participation window concluded. (For full details about the VIP, please refer to the section below titled “What Is the Visual Imagery Project?”) Results for VSS patients varied, with many experiencing symptom relief, some experiencing a temporary reduction in their symptoms, and others experiencing no change.
The Visual Snow Initiative collaborates with researchers and provides resources to support the study of various scientific aspects of VSS, such as exploring the use of visual stimuli to alleviate symptoms, in order to better understand its impact on VSS patients and refine its effectiveness for broader application.
Both past and ongoing research is exploring various approaches—such as exposure to “visual noise,” dynamic images, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), simulations, videos, and other multimedia—to investigate the neural mechanisms of Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) and how motion-selective neurons influence perception.
This research has evolved over time, with new methods offering new insights into the condition.
Notable research, in collaboration with the Visual Snow Initiative, includes:
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Francesca Puledda (King’s College London, UK) builds on anecdotal patient reports and fMRI brain scans, suggesting that exposure to extreme visual static reproductions may affect visual function and VSS symptoms.
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Damiano Perri, Osvaldo Gervasi, and their team (University of Perugia, Italy) have developed a mobile app and simulations based on their research findings.
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Samantha Montoya and her team (University of Minnesota, USA) are investigating “visual noise” can alleviate VSS, using simulations to measure the condition and exploring how visual snow’s susceptibility to the motion aftereffect may alter neural activity in visual brain areas, potentially leading to novel, targeted treatments.
Exploring the Neural Mechanisms of Visual Snow Syndrome: How Motion-Selective Neurons, Simulations, and Dynamic Images Influence Perception
“Visual Snow is Susceptible to the Motion Aftereffect“
Authors: Samantha A. Montoya, Anna J. Hillstrom, Karly D. Allison, Carter B. Mulder, Hannah R. Moser, Michael S. Lee, Michael-Paul Schallmo, and Stephen A. Engel (University of Minnesota, Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, United States)
“Visual snow is susceptible to the motion aftereffect, suggesting that the neural activity producing visual snow reaches motion selective neurons involved in perceiving the motion aftereffect, which are believed to include V5/MT. If visual snow arises before area V5/MT, our findings suggest this activity is propagated forward through the visual pathways. This shows that visual snow perception can be influenced by biasing motion-selective neurons, and future studies can use this approach to explore the neural mechanisms of visual snow. Pinpointing the neural origins of visual snow may facilitate the development of novel treatment approaches targeting specific visual brain areas or networks.”
This research builds upon the Visual Snow Initiative’s Visual Imagery Project (VIP) study and aligns with the work of VSS researchers Dr. Francesca Puledda (King’s College London), Damiano Perri, and Osvaldo Gervasi (University of Perugia).
“A Novel Computational Framework for Visual Snow Syndrome”
Authors: Dr. Damiano Perri and Dr. Osvaldo Gervasi (University of Perugia, Italy)
The study “A Novel Computational Framework for Visual Snow Syndrome” investigates two innovative approaches to understanding and managing VSS through computational modeling and technology. One approach uses augmented and virtual reality to simulate VSS visual perception, while the other builds on the Visual Snow Initiative’s Visual Imagery Project (VIP), a structured online study launched in 2020. Click here to continue reading about their findings.
To learn more about the Visual Imagery Project, please read the article below:
What Is the Visual Imagery Project?
Developed by the Visual Snow Initiative (VSI) and grounded in research trials and patient reports, the Visual Imagery Project (VIP) is a free, accessible online study and visual experience program aimed at reducing VSS symptoms and deepening understanding of this complex condition. Over a 21-day (minimum) to 30-day (maximum) structured protocol, participants can use a desktop computer to engage with dynamic, carefully designed visual stimuli for 10–20 minutes daily. These sequences, including static imagery, are customized based on research trials and patient reports that suggest their potential to alleviate symptoms, such as visual snow/static.
While the program will not work for everyone, VSI remains committed to providing resources that can make a meaningful difference for VSS patients. The VIP is not a cure, but it offers a new and additional helpful option for those seeking relief, while simultaneously contributing valuable research insights into the condition.
When Will the VIP Launch?
The Visual Imagery Project is expected to be available in late January or early February. VSI appreciates the patience and understanding of the community as they work to refine the program. Once launched, the VIP will be entirely free and accessible through our website and/or any additional links provided through our platforms, such as our social media channels and newsletter.
Developing the VIP is a complex process that involves collaboration between neuroscientists, researchers, and CGI experts to ensure an effective and user-friendly experience. VSI is working diligently to optimize the program, prioritizing quality and accessibility. Delays, though frustrating, reflect our collective dedication to creating the best resources that can benefit those affected by VSS. Thank you for your patience.
Will the VIP Work for Everyone?
VSI emphasizes that the VIP’s protocol may not work for everyone. While many participants in earlier trials reported temporary symptom relief or reduced visual snow/static, others also experienced a temporary change or no change at all.
Regardless, VSI assures the community that all other areas of VSS research are ongoing. As science progresses, new therapies and resources will continue to emerge, offering hope and opportunities for all patients. Additionally, if another promising area of research emerges, we redirect our efforts to ensure the best possible outcomes for everyone.
