RecruitingPhase 1Phase 2NCT03207464

Molecular Imaging of NET Using [C-11]MRB-PET in MS

Molecular Imaging of Norepinephrine Transporter (NET) Using [C-11]Methylreboxetine PET in Multiple Sclerosis

Sponsor

Brigham and Women's Hospital

Enrollment

19 participants

Start Date

Oct 10, 2017

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Multiple Sclerosis

Summary

This study aims to use \[C-11\]MRB PET (positron emission tomography) imaging to look at brain injury in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and healthy individuals. The overarching hypothesis is that there is decreased radioligand binding to the norepinephrine transporter in multiple sclerosis, reflecting injury to the noradrenergic system and that it plays a role in disease pathogenesis, its clinical manifestations and severity. This strategy is targeted to address an unmet need because currently available MRI techniques lack sensitivity and specificity for assessing such changes in the brains of people with MS. The specific aims of the study are: 1. To determine norepinephrine transporter binding in the brains of MS patients using \[C-11\]MRB PET and compare it with age, and sex matched healthy controls. 2. To determine correlation of norepinephrine transporter binding with clinical severity and MRI parameters in MS. 3. To determine correlation of norepinephrine transporter binding with fatigue and cognitive impairment in MS patients.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 60 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is using a special type of brain scan (PET imaging with a tracer called C-11 MRB) to look at how nerve transporters in the brain work in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) — a disease where the immune system attacks the protective coating of nerve fibres — to better understand what drives symptoms and disability. **You may be eligible if...** - You have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) according to established medical criteria - Your disability level is below a certain threshold (EDSS score less than 7.5) - You are between 18 and 70 years old - You are willing to undergo both PET and MRI brain scans - You are able to give informed consent **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a serious psychiatric condition such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or PTSD - You have another neurological condition, a history of significant head injury, or a history of substance abuse - You have claustrophobia or a condition preventing you from having an MRI - You are pregnant or breastfeeding Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

Interested in this trial?

Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.