January 13, 2012

A Multicenter Study for the Discovery and Validation of Biomarkers in ALS is currently recruiting participants.  The purpose of the research study is to collect blood samples and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Through comparison of these samples, the researchers hope to learn more about the underlying cause of ALS, as well as find unique biological markers, which could be used to diagnose ALS more quickly and develop new therapies.

These blood samples are different from samples that are collected at your regular doctor’s office or clinic visit because they are sent to scientists who are researching the causes and disease course of ALS.  Samples are also shared with ALS scientists around the country conducting research aimed at understanding the disease or identifying disease markers.

You must be at least 18 years of age, answer brief questions about your medical and family history, and give blood and spinal fluid samples.
 
The study is actively enrolling participants. A list of participating sites can be found at here.  To participate in the study, you may contact the site near you directly, or Sarah Titus at the Massachusetts General Hospital Coordination Center, 617-726-1398, stitus@partners.org