The Parkinson's Genetic Research Study

Purpose

The Parkinson's Genetic Research Study (PaGeR), headed by Dr. Cyrus Zabetian, is searching for genes that increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD) and related disorders. The study is a joint effort by neurologists and researchers across the United States and is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health. The coordinating center for PaGeR is located at the University of Washington and the VA Puget Sound Health Care System in Seattle.

Condition

  • Parkinson's Disease

Eligibility

Eligible Ages
Over 18 Years
Eligible Sex
All
Accepts Healthy Volunteers
Yes

Inclusion Criteria

  • Over 18 years of age - Member of a family in which there are two or more living individuals who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease

Exclusion Criteria

  • Under 18 years of age

Study Design

Phase
Study Type
Observational
Observational Model
Family-Based
Time Perspective
Cross-Sectional

Arm Groups

ArmDescriptionAssigned Intervention
Case Has a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease
Control No diagnosis of Parkinson's disease
Family Member Has a family history of Parkinson's disease. Can be affected or unaffected with Parkinson's disease

Recruiting Locations

Emory University/ Wesley Woods Health Center
Atlanta, Georgia 30329
Contact:
Barbara Sommerfield, MSN, RN
404-728-6944
bsommer@emory.edu

University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
Contact:
Jatue Krier
513-558-0169
katie.krier@uc.edu

Portland VA Medical Center
Portland, Oregon 97239
Contact:
Susan O'Connor
503-220-8262

VA Puget Sound Health Care System
Seattle, Washington 98108
Contact:
Jennifer Pate
855-646-4221

University of Washington
Seattle, Washington 98118
Contact:
Jennifer Pate
855-646-4221

More Details

Status
Recruiting
Sponsor
University of Washington

Study Contact

Jennifer Pate
1-855-646-4221

Detailed Description

PaGeR is focusing on families in which two or more people have been diagnosed with PD. Past research suggests that such "multiplex" families might hold the key to the discovery of new PD genes. To take part in PaGeR, participants will be asked to complete a questionnaire and to undergo an interview, a neurological exam, a short memory test, and a blood draw. Enrollment in the study usually takes between one and two hours. There is no cost to participate, and all study information is kept strictly confidential. There are a number of designated sites across the country where families can enroll. However, for family members who are unable to travel to one of these sites, other arrangements can be made.