Novel MRI Biomarkers for Monitoring Disease Progression in ALS

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA · Nov 29, 2017

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at new MRI techniques to better understand and monitor the progression of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a serious disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Unlike regular MRI scans, which often look normal in ALS patients, these advanced techniques can show changes in the brain's structure and function. The goal is to help diagnose ALS earlier, track how the disease is progressing, and improve the testing of new treatments that could lead to better options for patients.

To participate in this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have either a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of ALS, or be a healthy control over the age of 40. If you join, you will have three MRI scans over eight months, along with assessments of your neurological and cognitive health, with each visit lasting about 2 to 3 hours. The MRI is safe and does not involve any radiation. It’s important to note that some people may not be eligible for the study, especially those with certain mental health conditions or other serious neurological issues.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 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 Criteria:
• • 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.