Network-based biOmarker Discovery of Neurodegenerative Diseases Using Multimodal Connectivity
The NODAL study is looking for easier, more affordable ways to detect early Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. These conditions often develop over a long time without symptoms, making early diagnosis tricky. Researchers believe that by using special brain scans (fMRI), they can understand how brain networks are connected in people with these diseases, and also in healthy volunteers. The goal is to find unique patterns in these brain connections that could act as early warning signs. This could lead to quicker diagnoses, allowing people to get support sooner, and potentially slow down the disease's progression. Participants will have one visit involving a brain scan and a memory test.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research, called the NODAL study, is trying to find better ways to detect early Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. These conditions often start many years before people notice any symptoms. Catching them early is really important because it could help people get the right support sooner, potentially slow down the disease, and improve their quality of life. Currently, it can be hard to get an accurate diagnosis early on, which can lead to delays in getting help.
The study aims to discover new 'biomarkers'. These are like clues in the body that can tell doctors if a disease is present. For this study, the biomarkers are based on looking at how different parts of the brain communicate and connect with each other. Researchers will use a special type of brain scan called fMRI, which is safe and doesn't involve any needles, to see these brain connections. They hope to find unique patterns in these connections that are specific to early Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
By finding these patterns, doctors might one day have a simple, non-invasive, and affordable way to diagnose these diseases much earlier than is currently possible. This could make a big difference for many people and help them explore treatment options or trials sooner.
Key takeaways
- New study finding ways to detect early Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
- Uses safe brain scans (fMRI) to look at brain connections.
- Aims for earlier diagnosis, which can improve care.
- One half-day visit required, no medication involved.
- Important for global understanding of these conditions.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be between 50 and 80 years old, speak French as your first language, and be right-handed. You should also have finished at least primary school. We're looking for healthy volunteers, as well as people who have been diagnosed with early Alzheimer's disease or a specific type of newly diagnosed Parkinson's disease, or Parkinson's with mild memory problems. You must not have any other medical or mental health conditions that would affect your thinking abilities, unless it's the condition we're studying, and you need to be covered by the French social security system. Everyone who joins must understand the study information and sign a consent form.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to participate. This includes if you have certain metal implants (like pacemakers or some surgical clips) that make MRI scans unsafe, or if you get very anxious in small spaces (claustrophobia) as you'll need to go into an MRI scanner. We also can't include pregnant or breastfeeding women, or anyone under legal protection or who is in prison.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 50 and 80 years old?
- Do you speak French as your first language?
- Are you right-handed?
- Do you have a diagnosis of early Alzheimer's, or specific types of Parkinson's, or are you a healthy volunteer?
- Do you have any metal implants that might be unsafe for an MRI scan (e.g., pacemaker)?
- Are you comfortable in small, enclosed spaces?
- Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will have one visit to the study centre, which will last about half a day. During this visit, you'll first have some general checks and assessments by the medical team. Then, you'll have a brain scan called an MRI, which uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your brain. This scan is non-invasive and doesn't use radiation. After the MRI, you'll do a special memory test on a computer. This test will look at how well you recognise things and how you deal with confusing information. There are no medications involved in this study, and no follow-up visits after your single half-day session.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- CHU RennesVerified postcodeRennes, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a 'biomarker'?
A biomarker is like a clue in your body, such as a change seen during a scan, that can help doctors tell if a disease is present or developing.
What is an fMRI scan?
An fMRI scan is a special type of brain scan that's safe and doesn't use radiation. It shows how active different parts of your brain are and how they connect with each other.
Will I get my scan results?
The focus of this study is research, not individual diagnosis. The researchers will be looking for general patterns, not giving personal scan results.
How long does the study last?
Your participation involves a single visit that will take about half a day.
Is there any medication involved?
No, this study does not involve any new medications or changes to your current medication.
How to find out more
marie-laure gervais, Phd
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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