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Investigating the role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in ALS

Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein known for protecting the brain by activating a specific receptor called tropomysin related kinase B (TrkB). Changes in BDNF/TrkB have been linked to certain brain diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). BDNF is known for its protective effects, but too much activation of BDNF/TrkB can actually harm motor neurons. In ALS, increased BDNF release causes excessive neuronal activity, leading to subsequent degeneration of motor neurons. To better understand how BDNF and its receptor TrkB affect the progression of ALS, we want to study their role, using a specialized brain scan, called “Quantitative [18F]TRACK-PET/MRI”.

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Participation Requirements

  • Sex:

    Any

  • Eligible Ages:

    30 to 80

Participation Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:
For Patients:
1. Has ALS, classified as definite, probable, laboratory-supported probable, or possible ALS according to the revised El Escorial criteria.
2. Have the cognitive capacity to provide informed consent
3. Have proficiency in English in order to understand study instructions and respond to questionnaires
Exclusion Criteria:
Ineligible subjects include:

1) Subjects with psychiatric co-morbidity, illicit or recreational drug use, prior cerebral
ischemic events or CNS tumors.

2) Subjects who are pregnant and breastfeeding.

3) Subjects with a cardiac pacemaker, implanted morphine pumps, cochlear implants, or the presence of nonremovable, nonmedical, or ferromagnetic metal in the body (e.g. shrapnel parts) 

4) Patients who are unable to lie flat in an MRI machine for about 1.5 hours.

Study Location

University of Alberta
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada

Contact Study Team

Primary Contact

Tanushka Anand

[email protected]
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Study Sponsored By
University of Alberta
Participants Required
More Information
Study ID: Pro00132801