SUMMARY
Samantha A. Banks, M.D., is a neurologist whose research centers on improving outcomes for patients with progressive multiple sclerosis and other chronic autoimmune and inflammatory neurological conditions. Dr. Banks studies key challenges in developing therapies for progressive multiple sclerosis, including early detection of disease progression and accurate measurement of treatment effects. Her work integrates quantitative gait analysis, wearable sensors and advanced imaging to create objective, physiology-based measures of real-world function. These tools provide medical teams with insights for earlier recognition of progression and informed treatment decisions.
Additionally, Dr. Banks investigates movement disorders in multiple sclerosis, diagnostic biomarkers for neuroinflammatory diseases and rare inflammatory conditions of the nervous system. She bridges clinical neurology with translational research to improve patient care.
Focus areas
- Quantitative gait analysis in multiple sclerosis. Dr. Banks uses wearable sensors and video-based technologies to measure gait and mobility in patients with multiple sclerosis. These methods detect subtle abnormalities that are missed by traditional clinical exams and correlate with fall risk and patient-reported outcomes. Dr. Banks' research establishes gait analysis as a sensitive biomarker for monitoring disease progression and functional impairment. Her work forms the foundation for predictive mobility metrics in clinical practice.
- Movement disorders and neuromodulation. Dr. Banks investigates the mechanisms and treatment of multiple sclerosis-associated tremors and motor disability. Her research characterizes tremor phenotypes and evaluates the outcomes of advanced interventions such as deep brain stimulation for severe, refractory symptoms.
- Diagnostic biomarkers in demyelinating diseases. Dr. Banks has identified radiographic biomarkers in multiple sclerosis, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease and aquaporin-4 IgG-positive neuromyelitis optic spectrum disorder. Her work validates the use of fluid biomarkers such as cerebrospinal fluid kappa free light chains for atypical multiple sclerosis presentations. This approach improves diagnostic precision and guides clinical management in complex conditions.
- Rare inflammatory and histiocytic disorders. Dr. Banks characterizes neurological and ophthalmological manifestations of rare histiocytic diseases. Her research defines clinical presentations, treatment responses and biomarkers, expanding recognition of these disorders and informing therapeutic approaches.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Banks' research helps care teams notice earlier when multiple sclerosis symptoms get worse. Using advanced technology, medical teams can find changes in walking and movement that routine exams may miss. Dr. Banks helps patients get the right treatment sooner, which can slow disability and improve quality of life. Her work also helps diagnose inflammatory brain and spinal cord conditions faster and more accurately.
Professional highlights
- Young Investigator Educational Grant, Americas Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis, 2022, 2026.
- First Decade Award for early career achievements, Gustavus Adolphus College, 2025.
- Chief Resident Award, Adult Neurology Residency, Mayo Clinic, 2023.
- Top 10 abstract, Annual Meeting of the Histiocyte Society, 2023.
- Abstract of Distinction, American Neurological Association, 2022.
- Young Investigator Educational Grant, European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis, 2020.
- Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society, 2018.
- Gold Humanism Honor Society, 2018.
- Sigma Xi, Scientific Research Honor Society, 2015.