Relate genetic changes to mood
- Trial ID
- NCT05518617
- Official Title
- Molecular and Functional Imaging of Parkinson's Pathology in SNCA, Parkin and PINK1 Mutation Carriers
- Goal
- Relate genetic changes to mood
- Status
- RECRUITING
- Sponsor
- University of Exeter
- Study Type
- OBSERVATIONAL
- Enrollment
- 45 participants
- Conditions
- Parkinson Disease, Nervous System Disorder, Neurodegenerative Diseases, Neurodegenerative Disease, Hereditary, Parkinson's
- Interventions
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan using DASB tracer
Summary For Families
They want to map brain changes tied to hereditary Parkinson's genes SNCA, Parkin, and PINK1, to learn how these mutations affect non-dopaminergic systems that can drive symptoms like mood, sleep, and thinking. Participants have a PET scan with the DASB tracer, which binds the serotonin transporter so researchers can measure serotonergic nerve terminal health; the protocol also ties those images to MRI, dopamine SPECT, and spinal fluid measures, and it is observational so it does not change your Parkinson's medications. The study is looking for adults 25 to 80 who carry those mutations (or matched controls) who can tolerate PET and MRI and a lumbar puncture, are not taking serotonergic drugs like SSRIs, and do not have dementia, MRI contraindications, or bleeding risks.
Locations
- University Of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is this trial testing?
- This trial is studying Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan using DASB tracer. They want to map brain changes tied to hereditary Parkinson's genes SNCA, Parkin, and PINK1, to learn how these mutations affect non-dopaminergic systems that can drive symptoms like mood, sleep, and thinking. Participants have a PET scan with the DASB tracer, which binds the serotonin transporter so researchers can measure serotonergic nerve terminal health; the protocol also ties those images to MRI, dopamine SPECT, and spinal fluid measures, and it is observational so it does not change your Parkinson's medications. The study is looking for adults 25 to 80 who carry those mutations (or matched controls) who can tolerate PET and MRI and a lumbar puncture, are not taking serotonergic drugs like SSRIs, and do not have dementia, MRI contraindications, or bleeding risks.
- Who can participate?
- Participants must be between 25 Years and 80 Years.
- Where is this trial located?
- This trial is recruiting at 1 location.
- Does it cost anything to join?
- No. There is no cost to participate. Study-related care and treatment are provided at no charge.
- How long does the trial last?
- This trial is estimated to last approximately 4 years.
- Will I get the real drug or a placebo?
- It depends on the trial design. Some Parkinson's trials are placebo controlled, meaning a portion of participants get an inactive comparison while others get the experimental treatment. Some use crossover designs so everyone eventually receives the active treatment at some point. Observational trials do not use a placebo at all because they are not testing a new treatment. The consent form for any specific trial spells out the design and your odds of being assigned to placebo before you enroll.
- How often will I need to visit the study site?
- Visit frequency varies by trial. Many Parkinson's studies require an in person visit every 4 to 12 weeks during the active treatment phase, with shorter or longer gaps depending on the design. The site coordinator can give you the full visit schedule before you sign anything, so you know what the time commitment looks like.
- Can I leave the trial if I change my mind?
- Yes. You can withdraw from any clinical trial at any time, for any reason, without affecting your standard medical care. Trials are voluntary by law. The team may ask if you are willing to do a brief exit visit so they can collect safety information, but you are not obligated.
- Will travel or parking be reimbursed?
- Many trials reimburse for parking, mileage, and sometimes lodging if the site is far from your home. Reimbursement policies vary by sponsor and site. When you contact the trial team, ask specifically what is covered and how reimbursement is processed.
- Can my spouse or care partner come with me to visits?
- In most cases yes, and it is often encouraged. Care partners can help with notes, questions, and getting home safely after a long visit. Some study assessments do need to happen one on one, but care partners are usually welcome for the rest of the appointment.