A Multicenter Study for the Validation of ALS Biomarkers (BIO_ALS-01)

The purpose of this research study is to collect plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from volunteers with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Early ALS), pure lower or upper motor neuron disease (Suspected ALS), other neurological disorders that mimic motor neuron disease and healthy controls. Samples from these groups will be compared to learn more about the underlying cause of ALS and to find unique biological markers that can be used to improve diagnosis and develop new therapies.

Volunteers must be at least 40 years of age, be able to answer brief questions about their medical and family history, and be willing to have blood and/or CSF drawn for the study. Approximately 20 NEALS ALS Centers across the U.S. will participate including our Center. The study aims to enroll 600 volunteers to collect a total of 600 plasma samples and 210 CSF samples. The study is currently open to enrollment. Please contact the Coordination Center via the Northeast ALS Consortium (NEALS) for more information about this study at mghneuroclinicaltrialsunit@partners.org or toll free at 1-877-458-0631.

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