NCT05137665 · Target ALS Foundation, Inc.
Target ALS Biomarker Study; Longitudinal Biofluids, Clinical Measures, and At Home Measures
(TALSLB)
What this study is about
The goal of the study is to generate a biorepository of longitudinal biofluids-blood (plasma and serum), cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and urine linked to genetics and longitudinal clinical information that are made available to the research community.
View original scientific description
The goal of the study is to generate a biorepository of longitudinal biofluids-blood (plasma and serum), cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and urine linked to genetics and longitudinal clinical information that are made available to the research community. To accomplish these goals, we will enroll 800 Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients and 200 healthy controls from sites globally, over a 5 year time frame. Additionally, speech and motor function and spirometry measures will be collected bi-weekly in a subset of participants. ALS participants will be asked to come to the clinic for 5 study visits approximately every 4 months. Healthy participants will be coming for 2 study visits with a 12-month interval between visits. These samples and clinical information will be stored in a de-identified manner and made available for investigators to use in future research studies.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- ALS Participants:
- Age 18 or older.
- A diagnosis of ALS in accordance with Gold Coast criteria.
- Full Vital Capacity (FVC) of ≥30% or at the discretion of the Principal Investigator for the participant's predicted value for gender, height, and age at the time of screening.
- Ability to provide informed consent and understand the purpose and risks of the study.
- Ability to comply with study procedures and assessments, in the opinion of the Principal Investigator. Healthy Control Participants:
- Age 18 or older.
- No history of neurological disease, in the opinion of the Principal Investigator.
- No known ALS- associated genetic mutations at the time of consent.
- Ability to provide informed consent and understand the purpose and risks of the study.
- Ability to comply with study procedures and assessments, in the opinion of the Principal Investigator.
Where
- Phoenix, Arizona
- San Diego, California
- Georgetown, District of Columbia
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Chicago, Illinois
- Boston, Massachusetts
- St Louis, Missouri
- New York, New York
- Houston, Texas
- Seattle, Washington
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 21, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations