Imaging and Genetic Biomarkers of Parkinson Disease (PD) Onset and Progression in High-risk Families
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2008-01-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by
rigidity, bradykinesia, postural instability, and tremor. Clinical decline reflects ongoing
degeneration of dopamine-containing neurons. A critical unmet need for clinical research is
to improve early detection of these diseases by developing tools to assist with earlier
diagnosis. Biomarkers are broadly defined as characteristics that are objectively measured
and evaluated as indicators of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or
pharmacologic responses to a therapeutic intervention (Biomarkers Defintions Working Group
2001). Development of reliable biomarkers for PD would dramatically accelerate research on PD
etiology, pathophysiology, disease progression and therapeutics. Specific biomarkers may be
useful at the onset of neurodegeneration, the onset of disease, and/or to mark disease
progression. The biomarkers in this study include brain imaging with a radioactively labelled
drug (Beta-CIT), computerized testing of memory, attention, motor speed, judgment and
handwriting, and assessments of speech and smell. Subjects may also be asked to provide a
blood sample for genetic and biochemical testing.
Phase:
Phase 2
Details
Lead Sponsor:
Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders
Collaborators:
Molecular NeuroImaging United States Department of Defense