Artificial Intelligence-based Parkinson's Disease Risk Assessment (AI-PRA) Study
This research, called the AI-PRA Study, is exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) can help figure out a person's risk of developing Parkinson's disease. We believe that everyday devices like smartwatches and phone apps might pick up on very early, subtle signs of the disease before a formal diagnosis is made. The study involves volunteers aged 50 and older who have certain risk factors for Parkinson's, such as issues with sleep, blood pressure, or sense of smell. Participants will use a smartwatch and a phone app, along with providing some medical and genetic information. This data will be fed into an AI model to see if it can accurately predict Parkinson's risk. The aim is to find ways to identify the disease earlier, which could lead to better management and treatment options in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is called the Artificial Intelligence-based Parkinson's Disease Risk Assessment, or AI-PRA for short. The main idea behind it is that long before someone is officially diagnosed with Parkinson's, their body might show very tiny, early changes that could be picked up by smart devices. These changes could be in movement, sleep patterns, or other subtle signs that aren't obvious.
The researchers are using advanced computer programs, known as artificial intelligence (AI), to look at information from smartwatches and phone apps, combined with details about a person's health and genetics. They want to see if this AI model can accurately predict an individual's risk of developing Parkinson's disease. If we can spot these risks much earlier, it could open up new possibilities for managing symptoms and finding ways to slow down the disease.
Ultimately, this research hopes to develop a tool that could help doctors identify people who might be at risk of Parkinson's earlier than ever before. This could mean they get support sooner, and it could also help in finding people for important early treatment trials. It's all about trying to improve the future for those who might develop Parkinson's disease.
Key takeaways
- This study uses smartwatches, phone apps, and AI to find early signs of Parkinson's disease.
- It's for people aged 50+ who have specific risk factors for Parkinson's but no diagnosis.
- Participation involves two in-person visits, a brain scan, blood tests, and using a smartwatch and app for 6 months.
- The goal is to help doctors identify Parkinson's risk earlier for better long-term care.
- You'll get a smartwatch provided and contribute to important medical research.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for volunteers who are 50 years old or older. You might be a good fit if you haven't been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease yet, but you have one of these specific risk factors:
1. You have a condition called REM sleep behaviour disorder, where you might physically act out your dreams. This needs to have been confirmed by a special sleep test. 2. You experience what's called neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, which is when your blood pressure drops significantly when you stand up, and your heart rate doesn't increase much to compensate. This would be diagnosed by a doctor. 3. You have a reduced sense of smell, specifically if a special smell test shows your sense of smell is lower than most people your age and gender.
You also need to be able to use a smartphone that runs on Android version 11 or newer, as the study will provide you with a smartwatch to link to it. You must also be able to understand and agree to take part in the study in writing.
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 aged 50 or over?
- Do you already have an official diagnosis of Parkinson's disease? (If yes, you are not eligible)
- Do you have a compatible Android smartphone (version 11 or newer)?
- Have you been diagnosed with REM sleep behaviour disorder, neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, or a significantly reduced sense of smell?
- Are you able to agree to take part in the study in writing?
- Are you currently taking levodopa or other specific Parkinson's medications? (If yes, you may not be eligible)
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be involved in the study for about six months. Here’s what it will involve:
* **In-person visits:** You'll need to visit the study centre twice – once at the beginning (your baseline visit) and again after six months. During these visits, you'll complete some questionnaires and have a check-up with a neurologist. This will include tests of your memory, thinking skills, and movement. * **Brain scan:** At your first visit, you'll have a special brain scan called a DAT scan. This helps doctors look at the dopamine system in your brain. * **Blood tests:** You'll have blood tests at the start to look at your genetic information related to Parkinson's and your urate levels (if you are male). Males will have another blood test for urate at the six-month visit. * **Smartwatch and phone app:** You will be given a smartwatch to wear, which will connect to an app on your smartphone. The smartwatch will quietly collect information about your movements and activities. The phone app will also ask you to answer questionnaires about your health and feelings. You'll need to use these devices throughout the study.
Throughout the study, you shouldn't be taking certain Parkinson's medications. You have the right to stop participating at any time.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (3)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de ToulouseVerified postcodeToulouse, France
- Fundación Iniciativa para las Neurociencias. Hospital Ruber Internacional.Verified postcodeMadrid, Spain
- Queen Mary University of LondonVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is 'AI' and how is it used in this study?
AI stands for Artificial Intelligence. In this study, it's a clever computer program that will analyse all the information collected from your smartwatch, phone app, and medical tests to estimate your individual risk of Parkinson's disease.
What is a DAT scan?
A DAT scan is a special type of brain scan that helps doctors look at certain areas of your brain. It helps to check the health of cells that produce a chemical called dopamine, which is important for movement.
Do I need to own a smartwatch to join?
No, you don't need to own one. The study will provide you with a smartwatch to use for the duration of the study. You do need to have a compatible Android smartphone (version 11 or newer).
Will I find out my personal risk score?
The study aims to validate the AI model. While the focus is on research, the team will be able to discuss what your results mean for you. This will be explained in more detail if you consider joining the study.
What if I'm on medication for other health conditions?
The study has some restrictions on certain medications, especially those for Parkinson's or some mental health conditions. It's best to discuss all your current medications with the study team to see if you're eligible.
How to find out more
Eduardo de Pablo Fernández
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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