Imaging Effects of Neurotrophic Factor Genes on Brain Plasticity and Repair in Multiple Sclerosis
Abstract
The objective of this study is to develop a better biomarker for multiple sclerosis (MS) by combining genotype and imaging data. In this study, patients with MS undergo neurological evaluation to confirm diagnosis and determine disability level. They have blood drawn for genotyping, and undergo magnetic resonance imaging sensitive to focal and diffuse effects in brain (including cortical thickness and subcortical volume measures, lesion volumetry, and voxel-based morphometry and diffusion imaging). We are continuing to progress with screening, enrollment, and scanning of participants, with 79 patients having enrolled and completed study procedures or screened in to the study and in the process of scheduling. Although recruitment was initially slower than we hoped on this study, we have taken major steps to increase visibility and awareness of the study among patients and referral sources, and our recruitment rate significantly increased and continues to increase as a result. We continue to devote significant effort to maintaining and enhancing study visibility and awareness among referral sources and patients to maximize recruitment, and we fully anticipate that the momentum in recruitment will continue to grow as we go forward. We have encountered no adverse events. We continue to log and back up all data, and complete ongoing QA and data entry. A first batch of TaqMan genotyping (N=47) has been completed and a second batch will be sent in the Winter 2012. We are preparing a conference submission on brain-derived neurotrophic factor genotype and regional gray matter volumes (Hypothesis 1-A). We continue to have regular research meetings, and monitor the budget/expenses with our Grants Manager.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA602330
Entities
People
- Heather Wishart
Organizations
- Dartmouth College