Genetics and Aerobic Exercise to Slow Parkinson's Disease Trial

Launched by JAY ALBERTS · May 29, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Genetics and Aerobic Exercise to Slow Parkinson's Disease (GEARS) Trial is an exciting study that aims to understand how genetics and exercise can work together to slow down the progression of Parkinson's Disease (PD). This trial will involve 200 participants from the Cleveland and Salt Lake City areas, who will join a community exercise program called "Pedaling for Parkinson's." Participants will engage in exercise sessions on stationary bikes three times a week for a whole year. During the study, researchers will also look at the participants' genetic information to see how it might affect their response to exercise.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be adults diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, specifically in stages I to III, and should be able to safely ride a stationary bike. They will also need reliable transportation to the exercise facility and a smartphone to track their activity. Importantly, participants must be on a stable dose of their Parkinson's medication. However, those with certain health issues, such as dementia, serious neurological disorders, or who are currently involved in other Parkinson's studies, will not qualify. This trial not only seeks to gather valuable information about the relationship between genetics and exercise but also provides a supportive community environment for participants to stay active and engaged.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Adult with a diagnosis of PD by a physician or physician extender
• • 2. Hoehn and Yahr stage I-III
• • 3. Demonstrate the ability to safely mount and dismount a stationary cycle
• • 4. Reliable transportation to the community exercise facility
• • 5. Smartphone device for activity data monitoring
• • 6. On a stable dose of anti-parkinsonian medication
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Participation in disease modifying PD-related clinical trial or study
• • 2. Diagnosis of dementia or any neurocognitive impairment that compromises one's ability to provide informed consent.
• • 3. Implanted deep brain stimulation electrodes or focused ultrasound for PD management
• • 4. Recommendation for medical clearance using the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Preparticipation Health Screen a. If the ACSM screen recommends medical clearance, the participant must obtain medical clearance by their health care provider prior to participation.
• • b. Those who choose not to obtain physician clearance will not be eligible for participation.
• • e) A musculoskeletal issue (arthritis, osteoporosis, back problem) that would limit one's ability to engage in a cycling intervention f) Neurological disease other than Parkinson's disease (i.e. multiple sclerosis, stroke) g) Current cardiac arrhythmia