The Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI)

STUDY BASICS

Were you diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in the last two years and are not currently taking standard PD medications? You may be able to participate in a research study to help better understand how Parkinson’s disease progresses over time. Study participation involves having physical exams, undergoing brain scans, and providing biological samples. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

Parkinson’s disease is a nervous system disorder that affects the body’s movement and can result in shaking, stiffness, slowness, and other difficulties. People who have Parkinson’s disease typically experience worsening symptoms over time, but researchers do not fully understand how the disease develops and progresses.

 

The purpose of this study is to gather biological samples and other information from people with Parkinson’s disease to help researchers learn more about how the disease changes over time. Researchers hope their findings may lead to better ways to treat Parkinson’s disease in the future.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• Ages 30 and up
• Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the past two years
• Not currently taking standard Parkinson’s disease medications such as amantadine, carbidopa-levodopa (also known as Sinemet and Rytary), Azilect, Mirapex, or Requip 

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Participation involves an initial screening visit to make sure you are eligible for the study. Eligible participants will return for a baseline visit within 60 days of their screening visit and will be asked to return every 6 months for the first 2 years. During years 3-5, visits will be conducted every 6 months by phone or videoconference and annually in the clinic.

 

Study assessments and procedures include physical exams, brain imaging scans, blood draws, urine and cerebral spinal fluid collection, skin biopsy, information from digital applications, and self-reported information from online questionnaires.