Multimodal Imaging in Lewy Body Disorders v1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Multimodal Imaging in Lewy Body Disorders v1
IRAS ID
202332
Contact name
Li Su
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and University of Cambridge
Duration of Study in the UK
4 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
Lewy Body disorders (LBD) refer to two related conditions: Memory problems in Parkinson’s disease and Dementia with Lewy bodies. However, it is currently under-studied compared with many other forms of dementia, so better diagnosis and treatments need to be developed. To detect the damage to brain structure and function associated with LBD, we will combine a number of different brain imaging techniques in a five-year project in the University of Cambridge and the Medical Research Council Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit. Firstly, we use a method called Magnetoencephalography (MEG) to detect and measure electrical changes in the brain. MEG is very similar to Electroencephalography, which measures neural activity or “brainwaves” at the surface of the brain. Secondly, we use Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure changes in brain structure. Finally, we will also invite some people to come for a third, Positron Emission Tomography (PET). PET scan can measure damaged protein such as beta amyloid using the well-established PIB radio-ligand in living brains, which can be present in people with memory problems. We will record the PET data at a PET/CT scanner. Differences in MEG, MRI and PET scans will be compared between people with LBD and healthy controls. We will also ask people to have some tests of memory and other cognitive tasks. Cognitive tests will be carried out on all participants in order to compare memory, attention, visuospatial and other functions between those with and those without LBD. Blood samples will be obtained for analysis of genetic and other blood-borne markers of relevance to the study. We aim to understand the causes of LBD, so that new diagnostic methods and treatments can be developed. The identified MEG, MRI and PET changes may also serve as novel biomarkers for early recognition and endpoints for clinical trials in LBD.
REC name
East of England - Essex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EE/0531
Date of REC Opinion
20 Feb 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion