Identifying early signs of multiple sclerosis
Identifying and Characterizing Preclinical MS
This study is trying to find early signs of multiple sclerosis in people who may be at risk, so they can get treatment sooner and avoid serious problems later on.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 1000 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Yale University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (North Haven, Connecticut) |
| Trial ID | NCT05787795 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research aims to identify risk factors and biological changes that may indicate the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) before any symptoms appear. The study will involve participants who have risk factors for MS, such as a family history or specific health conditions. Participants will undergo blood draws, oral swabs, and may provide additional biological samples over time to study immune system changes. The goal is to detect MS early to enable preventive treatment and reduce long-term disability.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 18 and older with one or more risk factors for multiple sclerosis.
Not a fit: Patients who are currently pregnant, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, or undergoing treatment with immunosuppressive medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to early detection and prevention of multiple sclerosis, significantly improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While early detection of MS is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in identifying preclinical stages of other autoimmune diseases.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18+ * Having one or more risk factors for multiple sclerosis, including one or more of the below: * Individuals known to have a radiologically isolated syndrome * Individuals with a family history of multiple sclerosis (first degree family member) * Individuals with personal risk factors, which are known to include smoking, obesity, Epstein Barr virus infections, Vitamin D deficiency, genetic risk score Exclusion Criteria: * Currently pregnant * Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis or any ongoing, systemic autoimmune disease * Ongoing treatment with immunosuppressive medications
Where this trial is running
North Haven, Connecticut
- Yale University — North Haven, Connecticut, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Erin Longbrake, MD — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Erin Longbrake, MD
- Email: erin.longbrake@yale.edu
- Phone: 860-287-6100
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.