NCT03759522 · University of Alabama at Birmingham
Assessment of Neuroinflammation in Central Inflammatory Disorders Using [F-18]DPA-714.
What this study is about
The primary objective of this study is to measure the concentration and the regional brain distribution of activated brain microglia/macrophages using the PET radiopharmaceutical \[F-18\]DPA-714 in individuals with chronic pain and fatigue suspected to be associated with neuroinflammation.
View original scientific description
The primary objective of this study is to measure the concentration and the regional brain distribution of activated brain microglia/macrophages using the PET radiopharmaceutical \[F-18\]DPA-714 in individuals with chronic pain and fatigue suspected to be associated with neuroinflammation. The PET tracer \[F-18\]DPA-714 binds to the 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO, also known as the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor) in the mitochondria of activated microglia/macrophages and provides a non-invasive measure of neuroinflammation. The primary objective of this study is to determine if pain and fatigue patients have higher levels of neuroinflammation than HC individuals as measured with \[F-18\]DPA-714-PET/MRI.
Interventions
DRUG
DPA-714 PET/MRI
DPA-714 PET/MRI
Primary outcome measures
Neuroinflammation will be measured in healthy volunteers and compared to neuroinflammation in individuals with pain and fatigue, as measured with [F-18]DPA-714-PET/MRI.
Time frame: 3 years
Quantitative PET measures of TSPO binding in brain regions including cerebral cortex, thalami, and brainstem will be compared between healthy volunteers and symptomatic study participants with pain and/or fatigue.
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
- 18 to 65 years of age
- Healthy volunteer OR Clinical diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) OR Meets 2016 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) case definition criteria for fibromyalgia OR Meets 1994 Fukuda case definition criteria for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Exclusion criteria
- Contraindication to MRI
- Individuals who are unable to participate in the imaging portion due to severity of their medical condition
- Chronic infectious disease (e.g. HIV, HCV)
- Viral or bacterial illness requiring medical attention and/or antibiotics within 1 month of study participation
- Diagnosis of cancer, including leukemia
- Blood or blood clotting disorder
- Except for individuals with MS, a diagnosis of autoimmune disease is exclusionary
- Positive urine β-hCG test day of procedure or a serum -hCG test within 48 hours prior to the administration of \[18F\]DPA-714
- Currently enrolled in a clinical trial utilizing experimental therapies
Where
- Birmingham, Alabama
Collaborators
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Related conditions & keywords
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 Jun 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations