Brian Murphy, Ph.D.,  —

Brian holds a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University and a Bachelors of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. He has co-authored numerous scientific articles based on his previous research in the field of brain-computer interfaces and functional electrical stimulation. He is also passionate about making scientific advances easily accessible to the public.

Articles by Brian Murphy

AADC Deficiency and the Heart

As a very rare genetic medical condition affecting the nervous system,  aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency can have a wide range of symptoms, including movement disorders, oculogyric crises and, in rare instances, heart problems. What is AADC deficiency? AADC deficiency is caused by mutations in the DDC…

Feeding Tubes for AADC Deficiency

Nursing and swallowing can be difficult for children with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, and raise the possibility of both poor nutrition and choking. Because of feeding problems, these children will likely need some form of a feeding tube during their life, lowering these risks and increasing their chances…

Prevalence of AADC Deficiency

Researchers don’t know the exact prevalence (how common a disease is among a population) of aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency. However, they have conducted several studies in an attempt to estimate it. These studies screened for the disease in several countries around the world. Estimates of AADC deficiency…

Family Help for AADC Deficiency

Taking care of a child with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency can be overwhelming for parents or caregivers. But there are some ways you, as a family member, can help the primary caregivers of a child with AADC deficiency. Why it’s important to help Taking care of…

Raising Awareness of AADC Deficiency

Having a child with is a rare genetic disorder like aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency is life-altering. As with most diseases, early diagnosis and treatment usually lead to better outcomes. That is why it is important to raise awareness about the disease. Following are some ways you can help…

Mood Disorders in AADC Deficiency

Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency is a rare genetic disorder that involves a decrease in several neurotransmitters — chemicals that send messages to and from nerve cells — such as dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters play an important role in mood and emotions. What are…

Seizure Monitors for AADC Deficiency

People with aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, whose symptoms usually begin during infancy, sometimes experience seizures. Seizure monitors can help alert family members and caregivers that a seizure is occurring, and may provide some peace of mind when the patient is less…