Investigating early signs of neurodegeneration in patients with dream enactment behaviors
Striatal Dopamine Transmission and Prodromal Markers of α-synucleinopathy Neurodegeneration in Recurrent Dream Enactment Behaviors Without REM Sleep Without Atonia: a Case-control Study
This study is testing if certain dream behaviors in people aged 45 to 65 can be early signs of brain diseases related to neurodegeneration.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 102 (estimated) |
| Ages | 45 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Shatin) |
| Trial ID | NCT05353881 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore whether recurrent dream enactment behaviors (DEBs) without sufficient REM sleep without atonia (RSWA) can indicate an early stage of neurodegeneration related to α-synucleinopathy. The study will recruit 62 participants aged 45 to 65 who exhibit these behaviors and match them with controls. Participants will undergo clinical interviews and assessments of various prodromal markers of neurodegeneration, including cognitive and motor functions. A subset will also receive advanced imaging to evaluate dopamine function in the brain, helping to clarify the relationship between these behaviors and neurodegenerative conditions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 45 to 65 who exhibit recurrent dream enactment behaviors without sufficient REM sleep without atonia.
Not a fit: Patients who do not exhibit recurrent dream enactment behaviors or have sufficient REM sleep without atonia will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier identification and intervention for individuals at risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.
How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence linking similar prodromal markers to neurodegeneration, this specific approach is relatively novel and not extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 45 and 65 years old * RBDQ-HK behavior factor greater \> 8 * Recurrent DEBs by interview and/or video analysis * Absence of sufficient RSWA Exclusion Criteria: * Age- and sex- matched with cases * RBDQ-HK behavior factor \< 8 * No DEBs by either interview or video analysis * Absence of sufficient RSWA
Where this trial is running
Shatin
- Shatin Hospital — Shatin, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yun Kwok Wing, Professor — Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Mandy Yu, MPH
- Email: mandyyu@cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: 852-39197593
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.