Rene L. Utianski, Ph.D.

Location

Contact

SUMMARY

The research interests of Rene L. Utianski, Ph.D., include neurogenic motor speech disorders (the dysarthrias and apraxia of speech), degenerative language disorders (aphasia), and functional speech disturbances. The focus of her research is to define the distinguishing clinical and acoustical characteristics of these neurological disorders, establish their neurological and electrophysiological correlates, and refine their differential diagnoses.

Focus areas

• Defining the distinguishing speech, acoustical, and language characteristic correlates of primary progressive apraxia of speech and the major variants of primary progressive aphasia
• Defining the neuroimaging and electrophysiological correlates of primary progressive apraxia of speech and the major variants of primary progressive aphasia
• Dr. Utianski collaborates with Mayo Clinic researchers Keith A. Josephs, M.D., Jennifer Whitwell, Ph.D., and Joseph R. Duffy, Ph.D.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Utianski's research contributes to more accurate clinical diagnosis and prognostication of degenerative speech and language disorders. Her research has implications for early identification of certain neurological diseases, their early medical treatment when effective treatments become available, and appropriate prognostication that parlays into education and counseling for patients and their families.