Novel MRI Biomarkers for Monitoring Disease Progression in ALS
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis | Motor Neuron DiseaseRoutine MRI is normal in motor neuron diseases such as ALS. However, advanced MRI techniques can provide an objective measure of degeneration (a "biomarker") by examining brain structure, wiring, chemistry, and function. We will develop and evaluate novel MRI techniques that could improve our understanding of ALS and provide a means to diagnose it sooner and monitor its progression. Importantly, we expect these techniques to improve how new drugs are tested, which may lead to the more rapid discovery of a treatment for ALS.
Each participant will have 3 MRI scans over a period of 8 months, along with neurological and cognitive evaluations. Study visits will take 2 - 3 hours. MRI is a safe technique that does not involve radiation.
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Participation Requirements
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Sex:
ALL -
Eligible Ages:
18 and up
Participation Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
* Patients with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis as described in Study Populations
* For those with a diagnosis of ALS, patients will be considered with an El Escorial classification of suspected, possible, probable, probable lab-supported, and definite ALS.
* Patients 18 years of age or older
* Healthy controls over the age of 40.
* Be able to lie in an MRI machine for approximately 60 minutes
Exclusion Criteria:
* Subjects with psychiatric/CNS illnesses such as Major Depressive Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar disorder.
* Subjects with significant head injury or other neurological disease (stroke, brain tumour).
* Subjects ineligible for MRI investigation due to a pacemaker or other metallic foreign body.
Study Location
University of Alberta
University of AlbertaEdmonton, Alberta
Canada
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McGill University / Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital
McGill University / Montreal Neurological Institute and HospitalMontreal, Quebec
Canada
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University of Calgary / Heritage Medical Research Clinic
University of Calgary / Heritage Medical Research ClinicCalgary, Alberta
Canada
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University of Toronto / Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
University of Toronto / Sunnybrook Health Sciences CentreToronto, Ontario
Canada
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University of British Columbia / GF Strong Rehab Centre
University of British Columbia / GF Strong Rehab CentreVancouver, British Columbia
Canada
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Laval University
Laval UniversityQuebec City, Quebec
Canada
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Western University / London Health Sciences Centre
Western University / London Health Sciences CentreLondon, Ontario
Canada
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- Study Sponsored By
- University of Alberta
- Participants Required
- More Information
- Study ID:
NCT03362658