Research
The PAINT program is a collaboration among a group of PIs within the neurology department, all of whom are focused on neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. The group shares resources to perform clinical trials funded by pharmaceutical sponsors, foundations, and the NIH to develop new therapies for these conditions.
Huntington's Disease
Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited condition that causes a progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain over time. Most people with HD develop symptoms that impact their mental and physical abilities in their 30s or 40s, but symptoms may appear earlier or later in life. At BIDMC, our multidisciplinary team works together with you and your family to offer innovative and compassionate care to meet your physical, cognitive and emotional needs. Learn more about our HD Clinic here.
Huntington's Disease Actively Enrolling Studies
The HD repository is a database of people with Huntington’s disease (HD) or at-risk for HD who have participated in and/or may be interested in future research participation opportunities. The additional healthy participants will be used a comparison on performance for different tasks. If you join our HD repository, we will collect and store HD-related information so that we can better match you to studies that you may qualify for.
You may be eligible to participate if you:
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Have Huntington’s disease or are gene-positive for Huntington’s disease
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Are a healthy control (i.e. gene-negative or not blood-related to a carrier of the HD gene)
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Are interested in hearing about HD research opportunities
Contact: hdresearch@bidmc.harvard.edu or 617-667-5231
Enroll-HD is a worldwide observational study for families affected by Huntington’s disease. This study is not a clinical trial, so it does not test potential therapies. Enroll-HD is an open-ended study, meaning it has no set end date, and consists of one annual visit a year. Participants can choose to leave the study at any time. The purpose of Enroll-HD is to understand why and when certain HD symptoms appear, as well as identify possible ways to develop new, effective drug treatment options.
While Enroll-HD does not test potential therapies for HD, there are many reasons to participate in Enroll-HD, including:
- You will be part of a worldwide effort to find effective treatments for HD
- You will have the attention and support of the Enroll-HD team
- You will be able to find out more about HD and the potential of new treatment options, or clinical trials you might not have had access to otherwise
- You’ll see that you are not alone in this journey
- Visit the Enroll-HD website at https://www.enroll-hd.org/ to learn more
Contact: hdresearch@bidmc.harvard.edu or 617-667-5231
A PHASE II, RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED, DOSE-FINDING STUDY TO EVALUATE THE SAFETY, BIOMARKERS, AND EFFICACY OF TOMINERSEN IN INDIVIDUALS WITH PRODROMAL AND EARLY MANIFEST HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE
Generation HD2 is evaluating an investigational drug designed to target a protein called mutant huntingtin (mHTT), which causes Huntington’s disease (HD). This study aims to compare the safety and effects of two different doses of the investigational drug Tominersen versus placebo. Both the investigational drug and the placebo will be given as injections into the spine. These injections will take place at study visits, which occur approximately once every 4 months for up to 2 years.
Please see some of the key study criteria for enrolling in this study:
- 25-50 years of age
- Have a formal diagnosis of early manifest HD or carry the abnormal huntingtin gene and are starting to show very early, subtle signs of HD, which may only be apparent during a detailed examination by a physician
- Have a CAP score of 400 to 500, inclusive (this is a research calculation based on your cytosine-adenine-guanine (CAG) repeat length in the huntingtin gene and your age; the study team can tell you more about this measure if you have never come across it before)
- · Ability to undergo and tolerate MRI scans
Contact: hdresearch@bidmc.harvard.edu or 617-667-5231
The Huntington’s disease Center of Excellence at BIDMC is inviting individuals with Huntington’s disease to participate in an observational study from Hoffman La Roche Therapeutics. The purpose of this study is to examine genetic markers in Huntington’s disease and help develop potential targets for future clinical studies. Patients who enroll in this study will attend one in-person study visit and give up to a tablespoon of blood for analysis.
Inclusion Criteria
- Confirmed diagnosis of Huntington’s disease.
- Able to give informed consent.
- Between 25 and 60 years old.
- Able to tolerate a single blood draw.
- Able to travel to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston for one in-person study visit.
Other inclusion and exclusion criteria apply. For more information, contact Clemi Ullman at 617-667-2355 or at cullman@bidmc.harvard.edu.
We are seeking volunteers who have been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). The purpose of this study is to establish biomarkers for both speech and language deficiencies in neurodegenerative diseases using a Speech application. This is an exploratory study to determine whether markers of speech and language are able to distinguish participants and healthy controls or capture disease progression. A key secondary aim is to determine whether these speech and language biomarkers are associated with cognitive changes in these participants.
Inclusion Criteria
- Age 18 and older
- Have been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Exclusion Criteria
- Individuals with any other form of dysarthria not related to HD, PD, or MCI (acquired, developmental or trauma-related)
Other inclusion and exclusion criteria apply. For more information, contact Áine Russell at 617-667-2351 or arussel2@bidmc.harvard.edu
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center are conducting a research study focused on identifying cognitive challenges in early-stage Huntington’s disease.
This study may be a good fit for you if you are living with Huntington’s disease or are a healthy control
If you decide to take part in the research study, you would:
- Provide some basic demographic information.
- Complete a 15-minute questionnaire detailing any cognitive changes you have noticed.
Location of Research: This research will take place online.
To take part in the SPEC-HD research study or for more information, please contact: hdresearch@bidmc.harvard.edu
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s Department of Neurology are collecting biosamples (for example, blood) for research These samples will be used to learn more about neurological disorders and problems
This study may be a good fit if you are:
- An adult BIDMC Neurology patient
- Or, interested in being a healthy control
If you decide to take part in the research study, you would:
- Provide blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and/or saliva samples
- Be offered to provide additional samples in the future
- Have your samples and information stored in a biorepository for future research
Location of Research:
This study does not require you to come to BIDMC for additional visits. Collection of your samples will usually be done at the same time and place that you are been seen for a clinic or research study visit.
There are no direct benefits and no payment for being in this study. However, your participation may help others as a result of the knowledge gained from this research.
To take part in our department biorepository, or for more information, please contact our research coordinators at neurorepository@bidmc.harvard.edu
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a movement disorder that affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans. At BIDMC, our neurologists coordinate treatment and care with a multidisciplinary team of experts — including physical therapists, sleep specialists, social work and more — to meet the physical, cognitive and emotional needs of you and your caregivers. Learn more about our Parkinson's Disease Program here.
Parkinson's Disease Actively Enrolling Studies
The Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center is seeking people with Parkinson’s disease or parkinsonism to be included in a research database. We would use this database to follow you over time and allow us to inform you about any relevant research opportunities.
Inclusion Criteria
- Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or parkinsonism
- At least 18 years old
For more information, or if you are interested in participating, contact Áine Russell at arussel2@bidmc.harvard.edu.
We are seeking volunteers who have been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). The purpose of this study is to establish biomarkers for both speech and language deficiencies in neurodegenerative diseases using a Speech application. This is an exploratory study to determine whether markers of speech and language are able to distinguish participants and healthy controls or capture disease progression. A key secondary aim is to determine whether these speech and language biomarkers are associated with cognitive changes in these participants.
Inclusion Criteria
- Age 18 and older
- Have been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Exclusion Criteria
- Individuals with any other form of dysarthria not related to HD, PD, or MCI (acquired, developmental or trauma-related)
Other inclusion and exclusion criteria apply. For more information, contact Áine Russell at 617-667-2351 or arussel2@bidmc.harvard.edu
The Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center is seeking clinical trial volunteers with early-stage Parkinson’s disease to participate in a study of an investigational drug called BIIB122 to see if it may slow the progression of PD. Patients who enroll in this study must have been diagnosed with PD within the past 2 years. Participants will receive the study drug for up to 146 weeks.
Inclusion Criteria
- Age 30 to 80
- Have been diagnosed with PD within the past 2 years
- Not currently taking levodopa and certain other PD medications (*exceptions may apply. Contact the study team for further details)
- Genetic testing results verifying the absence of a pathogenic LRRK2 variant
Exclusion Criteria
- Clinically significant neurological disorder other than PD
- Surgical intervention for PD
Other inclusion and exclusion criteria apply. For more information, contact Hannah Babcock at 617-667-9890 or hbabcock@bidmc.harvard.edu.
The TOPAZ study is done from your home! TOPAZ is a clinical trial that will test if zoledronic acid can prevent fractures in people with Parkinson’s Disease and parkinsonism.
You may be able to join if you…
- Have Parkinson’s Disease or parkinsonism
- Are 60 years or older
- Have not had a hip fracture
To join or learn more, visit topaz.eurekaplatform.org and enter invitation code BIDMC or call 617-667-9885.
The Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center is seeking people with Parkinson’s disease to participate in free genetic testing for Parkinson’s-related genes. Genetic testing can be a powerful tool to uncover biological pathways that cause Parkinson’s disease (PD), and this understanding can lead to improved treatments and care for all people with Parkinson’s. For eligible patients, participation will involve a one-time buccal sample collection. The sample will be sent to a central laboratory for genetic testing, and either your neurologist at BIDMC or the Parkinson’s Foundation will provide genetic counseling to explain the results of the test.
Inclusion Criteria
- Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease
- At least 18 years old
Exclusion Criteria
- Diagnosis of an atypical parkinsonian disorder (i.e. multiple system atrophy, progressive supranuclear palsy, dementia with Lewy bodies, corticobasal syndrome)
Other inclusion/exclusion criteria apply and will need to be assessed by the study team. For more information, or if you are interested in participating, contact Hannah Babcock at hbabcock@bidmc.harvard.edu or call 617-667-9890.
The purpose of this international study is to evaluate long-term safety and effectiveness of Abbott deep brain stimulation (DBS) systems for all indications, including Parkinson's disease, essential tremor or other disabling tremor and dystonia. This study will enroll male and female subjects diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, essential tremor or other disabling tremor, or dystonia who are scheduled for a new implant or IPG device replacement surgery with a market-released Abbott DBS system.
Inclusion Criteria
- Subject is scheduled for a new implant or IPG device replacement surgery with a market-released Abbott DBS system within 180 days.
- Subject, or a legally acceptable representative, must provide written informed consent prior to any study-related procedure.
Exclusion Criteria
- Subject is currently enrolled or plans to enroll in an investigational study that may confound the results of this study.
- Subject has anatomic or comorbid conditions, or other medical, social, or psychological conditions that, in the investigator's opinion, could limit the subject's ability to participate in the study or to comply with follow-up requirements, or impact the scientific soundness of the study results.
- Study center is located in the United States, and indication for DBS implant is not Parkinson's disease or disabling tremor.
- Study center is located in the United States, and the intended lead implant location is not at, or in close proximity to, the STN, GPi, or VIM thalamus.
Contact Hannah Babcock at hbabcock@bidmc.harvard.edu for more information.
Doctors are researching an oral investigational medication for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The medication is being evaluated to see if it is effective and well-tolerated in adults aged 35 to 80. If you are between 35 and 80, you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 5 years ago or longer and your motor (movement) symptoms change significantly over the course of the day, you may be able to join this medical research study. Visit atlantis-study.com or contact us at pdresearch@bidmc.harvard.edu to find out more.
We are seeking participants for a research study. The study includes two parts:
- Basket Sleep Study, which is tested in different neurodegenerative disease states and healthy volunteers for a 2-week duration. This study uses mobile (at-home) electroencephalogram (EEG) and in-clinic polysomnogram (PSG) together with a device measurement toolkit to measure sleep-related outcomes including patient-reported surveys, which are collected via mobile devices.
- A Parkinson’s Disease (PD) Progression Study to examine the use of an electronic study device worn on your wrist (like a wristwatch) and a hand-held mobile study device to measure PD activities of daily living, such as movement, speech over the course of 12 months.
For more information, or if you are interested in participating, contact our study team at pdresearch@bidmc.harvard.edu
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s Department of Neurology are collecting biosamples (for example, blood) for research These samples will be used to learn more about neurological disorders and problems
This study may be a good fit if you are:
- An adult BIDMC Neurology patient
- Or, interested in being a healthy control
If you decide to take part in the research study, you would:
- Provide blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and/or saliva samples
- Be offered to provide additional samples in the future
- Have your samples and information stored in a biorepository for future research
Location of Research:
This study does not require you to come to BIDMC for additional visits. Collection of your samples will usually be done at the same time and place that you are been seen for a clinic or research study visit.
There are no direct benefits and no payment for being in this study. However, your participation may help others as a result of the knowledge gained from this research.
To take part in our department biorepository, or for more information, please contact our research coordinators at neurorepository@bidmc.harvard.edu
Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia are progressive neurodegenerative diseases that usually start off slowly and worsen over time, destroying memory and other mental functions. Ongoing studies into the cognitive deficits and potential treatments of Alzheimer's disease are an important part of our clinical research program. The BIDMC Cognitive Neurology Unit (CNU) is an outpatient multispecialty clinic devoted to the evaluation and treatment of people who have difficulties in concentration, memory, perception, and language as well as emotional consequences resulting from an injury or disease affecting the nervous system. Learn more about the CNU here.
Alzheimer's Disease Actively Enrolling Studies
We are seeking volunteers who have been diagnosed with mild Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia to participate in a study looking at the investigational product, MIB-626, which is an oral medication taken daily. If you decide to join this research study, it will take you about 5 months to complete the study. During this time, we will ask you to make up to 8 study visits to our research center and undergo blood and urine sample collection, physical exams, electrocardiograms (ECG), an MRI (optional), a lumbar puncture (also known as a spinal tap) (optional), questionnaires, and memory and thinking tests.
Inclusion Criteria
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Ages 55 to 85
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Has a study partner
Exclusion Criteria
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Any significant neurologic disease other than AD that can lead to cognitive impairment
Other inclusion and exclusion criteria apply. For more information, contact our team at 617-667-2379 or memorya2z@bidmc.harvard.edu
We are seeking volunteers who have been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). The purpose of this study is to establish biomarkers for both speech and language deficiencies in neurodegenerative diseases using a Speech application. This is an exploratory study to determine whether markers of speech and language are able to distinguish participants and healthy controls or capture disease progression. A key secondary aim is to determine whether these speech and language biomarkers are associated with cognitive changes in these participants.
Inclusion Criteria
- Age 18 and older
- Have been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Exclusion Criteria
- Individuals with any other form of dysarthria not related to HD, PD, or MCI (acquired, developmental or trauma-related)
Other inclusion and exclusion criteria apply. For more information, contact Áine Russell at 617-667-2351 or arussel2@bidmc.harvard.edu
By participating in ALZ-NET, patients living with Alzheimer's or another dementia can support advancements in dementia research to improve care across all communities.
ALZ-NET is a resource for collecting and assessing real-world data from various communities across the country, including information captured during doctor’s office visits, medical records, and, in the future, electronic health records and other sources. It is important to consider individual differences across the United States — like age, ethnicity, lifestyle habits, or where we live — and how they can reveal important insights about our brain health, how we may react to new treatments and how we develop successful care approaches.
Email memorya2z@bidmc.harvard.edu to learn more.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s Department of Neurology are collecting biosamples (for example, blood) for research These samples will be used to learn more about neurological disorders and problems
This study may be a good fit if you are:
- An adult BIDMC Neurology patient
- Or, interested in being a healthy control
If you decide to take part in the research study, you would:
- Provide blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and/or saliva samples
- Be offered to provide additional samples in the future
- Have your samples and information stored in a biorepository for future research
Location of Research:
This study does not require you to come to BIDMC for additional visits. Collection of your samples will usually be done at the same time and place that you are been seen for a clinic or research study visit.
There are no direct benefits and no payment for being in this study. However, your participation may help others as a result of the knowledge gained from this research.
To take part in our department biorepository, or for more information, please contact our research coordinators at neurorepository@bidmc.harvard.edu
Additional Neurological Diseases
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s Department of Neurology provides comprehensive care to patients with neurological disorders. We treat both common conditions and complex diseases with up-to-date therapies and technological procedures. We offer a range of programs and clinics to care for diseases affecting the nervous system, from brain to muscle.