Radiation Therapy for Parkinson's Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new treatment for Parkinson's Disease using ultra-low doses of radiation therapy to reduce brain inflammation. Researchers employ advanced imaging techniques to guide the radiation precisely. The trial seeks individuals recently diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease affecting one side of their body, who have not changed their medication in the past three months. Participants must be willing to provide blood samples and return for follow-ups. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could lead to innovative treatments for Parkinson's Disease.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it does mention that you should not have changed your Parkinson's Disease medications in the last 3 months.
What prior data suggests that this radiation therapy is safe for Parkinson's Disease?
Research shows that the safety of radiation therapy for Parkinson's Disease (PD) remains unclear. Some studies suggest that repeated exposure to low doses of radiation might cause brain issues, such as changes in cell growth and increased inflammation, which could concern people with PD. Additionally, other research hints at a possible link between radiation exposure and PD, but more studies are needed to confirm this connection.
While radiation therapy is commonly used for other conditions, its effects on PD specifically require further study. Current research highlights the need for careful consideration before using radiation therapy for Parkinson's. This trial focuses on using ultra-low doses, which might reduce potential risks. However, discussing the possible benefits and risks with a healthcare provider is important.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard treatments for Parkinson's Disease, which typically include medications like Levodopa and dopamine agonists to manage symptoms, this new approach uses radiation therapy in an innovative way. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it involves an ultra-low, anti-inflammatory dose of radiation, which targets brain inflammation that may contribute to the disease. This method could potentially slow the progression of Parkinson's Disease, offering a different mechanism of action compared to current therapies that mainly focus on symptom relief. Additionally, by targeting the disease at an early stage and potentially reducing inflammation, it might provide longer-term benefits for patients with unilateral Parkinson's Disease.
What evidence suggests that radiation therapy might be an effective treatment for Parkinson's Disease?
Research has shown that radiation therapy, which participants in this trial will receive, might help treat Parkinson's Disease (PD) by reducing brain inflammation. Some studies suggest that electromagnetic radiation can reduce tremors, especially in the early stages of PD. Early research indicates that small amounts of radiation might protect brain cells, aiding their survival. One study found that similar treatments improved many patients' quality of life. While more research is needed, these early results are promising for using radiation therapy to manage Parkinson's symptoms.36789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Yasamin Sharifzadeh-Moghaddam
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people aged 45-70 with Parkinson's Disease confirmed by a specialist and certain scans, who can consent to the study and provide blood samples. They must be able to do some tasks independently or with help, have a mild stage of disease, and not have had recent medication changes or other memory disorders.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Radiation
Participants receive ultra-low, anti-inflammatory doses of radiation therapy using TrueBeam LINAC and guided by DaT-SPECT and MRI imaging
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Radiation Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mayo Clinic
Lead Sponsor