Exploring the Skin's Role in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration

The Skin as a Window to the Central Nervous System in Frontotempolar Lombar Degeneration

Not applicable Interventional Nantes University Hospital · NCT06490822

This study is testing how changes in the skin might relate to frontotemporal lobar degeneration in people with the condition and comparing it to healthy volunteers.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages50 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorNantes University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Nantes)
Trial IDNCT06490822 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the relationship between skin pathology and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by behavioral and language decline. Participants diagnosed with various forms of FTLD will undergo skin biopsies and blood sample collection at Nantes University Hospital over a 24-month period. Healthy volunteers will also be included for comparative analysis. The aim is to understand how protein deposits associated with FTLD manifest in the skin, potentially providing insights into the disease's progression.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 50-75 diagnosed with frontotemporal lobar degeneration or related disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions affecting the peripheral nervous system or those with significant comorbidities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new diagnostic tools or therapeutic strategies for patients with frontotemporal lobar degeneration.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of examining skin pathology in relation to neurodegenerative diseases is emerging, similar studies have shown promise in other proteinopathies, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria (patients):

* Adressed or followed at memory clinic or ALS expert center at Nantes university hospital.
* Aged 50-75 years
* Fulfilling current diagnosis criteria for one of the disorder: vcfFTD, non-Alzheimer PPA (semantic or non fluent), DCB or PSP,ALS
* MMSE ≥ 18
* Membership of social security scheme

Inclusion Criteria (healthy volunteers):

* No history of neurological disease, diabetes, or alteration/damage of peripheral nervous system
* Aged 50-75 years Paired to at least one patient on age (less or more 5 years)
* MOCA ≥ 26
* Membership of social security scheme

Non inclusion Criteria (Patients and healthy volunteers):

* Concomitting conditions affecting the peripheral nervous system such as but not limited to diabetes, renal failure, thyroid disorder, vitamin B12 deficiency, acute and chronic inflammatory diseases HIV, syphilis
* Know allergy to local anesthetic
* Known coagulopathy
* Pregnant women or breastfeeding women
* Person under court protection sous sauvegarde de justice
* Person under guardianship
* Inability to sign an informed consent

Non inclusion criteria (Patients) • Patient with neurological disease other than FTLD

Non inclusion criteria (Healthy volunteers) :

• Evidence of neurological disorder at the inclusion including but not limted to FTLD, Parkinson disease, Alzheimer disease, lewy body dementia, Huntington disease, systemic lupus erythematosus multiple sclerosis; learning disabilities, mental retardation, severe hypoxic brain injuries, brain trauma with permanent cognitive impairments.

Where this trial is running

Nantes

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Frontotemporal Lobar DegenerationFTLDtauTDP43skin biopsy
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.