RecruitingNCT03362658

Novel MRI Biomarkers for Monitoring Disease Progression in ALS

Sponsor

University of Alberta

Enrollment

700 participants

Start Date

Oct 1, 2016

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Conditions

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease

Summary

Routine MRI is normal in motor neuron diseases such as ALS. However, advanced MRI techniques can provide an objective measure of degeneration (a "biomarker") by examining brain structure, wiring, chemistry, and function. We will develop and evaluate novel MRI techniques that could improve our understanding of ALS and provide a means to diagnose it sooner and monitor its progression. Importantly, we expect these techniques to improve how new drugs are tested, which may lead to the more rapid discovery of a treatment for ALS. Each participant will have 3 MRI scans over a period of 8 months, along with neurological and cognitive evaluations. Study visits will take 2 - 3 hours. MRI is a safe technique that does not involve radiation.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Inclusion Criteria5

Patients with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis as described in Study Populations
For those with a diagnosis of ALS, patients will be considered with an El Escorial classification of suspected, possible, probable, probable lab-supported, and definite ALS.
Patients 18 years of age or older
Healthy controls over the age of 40.
Be able to lie in an MRI machine for approximately 60 minutes

Exclusion Criteria3

Subjects with psychiatric/CNS illnesses such as Major Depressive Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar disorder.
Subjects with significant head injury or other neurological disease (stroke, brain tumour).
Subjects ineligible for MRI investigation due to a pacemaker or other metallic foreign body.

Interested in this trial?

Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.