Pilot study of DRUM-AI in HD and PD v1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Development and pilot evaluation of an artificial intelligence-based rhythmic auditory stimulation system for personalised training of finger movements in Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease (DRUM-AI).
IRAS ID
360886
Contact name
Claudia Metzler-Baddeley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Huntington’s disease (HD) are progressive neurological disorders that affect movement, cognition, mood, and sleep. While caused by different factors, both impact the basal ganglia—a brain region critical for movement coordination and timing—leading to disrupted motor control. PD typically involves slow movement, stiffness, and tremors, whereas HD is caused by a genetic mutation resulting in involuntary movements and difficulty with voluntary control. Both conditions impair thinking and mood, significantly affecting quality of life.
There are currently no cures, and available treatments primarily manage symptoms, often with side effects. This has created interest in non-drug, personalized therapies. Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS)—using rhythmic cues like beats or music—has shown promise in improving movement, especially in PD. Our previous work demonstrated that rhythmic drumming can benefit motor and cognitive function in HD.
Building on these findings, we developed a home-based app called DRUM, offering 22 sessions of finger and hand movement training through varied rhythmic styles. While early user feedback has been positive, with reported improvements in motor skills, some users found the app either too difficult or repetitive, affecting long-term engagement.
To address this, we are developing DRUM-AI, an AI-powered version of the app that personalises training by adjusting tempo and difficulty in real time, based on individual performance and symptoms. This aims to enhance motivation and maximize therapeutic benefit.
Our project has two phases: developing and evaluating DRUM-AI and testing feasibility in 30 individuals with PD and HD. DRUM-AI aims to provide a tailored, engaging, home-based tool to help individuals with PD and HD maintain or improve motor and cognitive function, offering a new approach to managing these complex diseases.
REC name
Wales REC 7
REC reference
25/WA/0227
Date of REC Opinion
1 Sep 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion