A Longitudinal Study Using Muscle MRI in ALS
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluating ALS Progression: A Longitudinal Study Using Muscle MRI as an outcome measure
IRAS ID
347078
Contact name
Oliver Ziff
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106/2024/05/181, UCL Data protection registration
Duration of Study in the UK
9 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disease that affects the nerves controlling muscles, leading to severe muscle weakness and impacting essential functions like movement, speech, swallowing, and breathing. Despite extensive research, there is currently no reliable method for monitoring the progression of ALS, which limits the development of effective treatments.
Purpose of the Project: Our study aims to enhance the monitoring of ALS using whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This safe and painless imaging technique provides detailed images of muscles throughout the body. By utilizing whole-body muscle MRI, we hope to establish a biomarker that accurately reflects the rate of ALS progression, allowing for better monitoring over time and improved assessment of new treatments in clinical trials.
What We Will Do: We will conduct MRI scans on 50 individuals diagnosed with ALS and compare these to scans from 25 individuals with other neuromuscular diseases and 25 healthy participants. Each participant will undergo three MRI scans within the first six months. Participants will then be offered to continue in the long term extension phase of the study which involves 2 yearly MRI scans for up to 10 years. Alongside the MRI, we will gather information about muscle strength, breathing function, blood tests, and nerve conduction studies.
Why This Is Important: Current tracking methods for ALS can be inconsistent and may miss subtle changes. Whole-body muscle MRI presents a promising approach to accurately observe the impact of ALS across different muscle groups, leading to better monitoring and more effective clinical trials.
How It Will Benefit Patients: This research could significantly improve the way ALS is monitored in clinical settings, enabling earlier identification of effective treatments. Enhanced monitoring may allow for timely intervention, ultimately improving care quality for patients and their families regarding disease management.
REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/SW/0144
Date of REC Opinion
20 Dec 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion