Exploring non-invasive biomarkers in Motor Neuron Disease
Developing Novel Non-invasive Electrophysiological Biomarkers of Dysfunction in Spinal and Cortical Pathways and Sensorimotor Impairments in Motor Neurone Disease
This study is testing new ways to measure brain and nerve activity in people with Motor Neuron Disease to see if it can help track how the disease progresses.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 240 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Dublin, Trinity College Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dublin, Leinster) |
| Trial ID | NCT06320444 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to identify and quantify non-invasive biomarkers that can accurately classify and track the progression of Motor Neuron Disease (MND) and its subtypes, including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). By employing advanced techniques such as High-Density EEG and Electromyography, the research will investigate the electrical activity of the cortical-spinal network and how it is affected in ALS patients compared to healthy controls. The study will utilize peripheral stimulation methods to probe the communication between brain and spinal networks, potentially revealing novel neurophysiological signatures associated with the disease.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with ALS, PLS, PMA, SMA, Polio, or MS who can provide informed consent.
Not a fit: Patients with active psychiatric diseases or severe neuropathy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and monitoring methods for patients with Motor Neuron Disease.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this study aims to provide novel insights into the neurophysiological profiling of ALS, making it a potentially unique contribution to the field.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: - Healthy Volunteers: * age and gender matched to patient groups * intact physical ability to take part in the experiment. Patients: * Diagnosis of ALS, PLS, PMA, SMA, Polio or MS * capable of providing informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: - Healthy Controls: * History of neuromuscular * neurological or active psychiatric disease disease * history of reaction or allergy to recording environments, equipment and the recording gels. Patients: * presence of active psychiatric disease * any medical condition associated with severe neuropathy (e.g. poorly controlled diabetes). * History of reaction or allergy to recording environments, equipment and the recording gels.
Where this trial is running
Dublin, Leinster
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin — Dublin, Leinster, Ireland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Orla Hardiman, BSc MB BCh BAO MD FRCPI FAAN — Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin
- Study coordinator: Orla Hardiman, BSc MB BCh BAO MD FRCPI FAAN
- Email: hardimao@tcd.ie
- Phone: +353 1 896 4497
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.