NCT06553976 · Boston Children's Hospital
Spastic Paraplegia - Centers of Excellence Research Network
(SP-CERN)
What this study is about
The Spastic Paraplegia - Centers of Excellence Research Network (SP-CERN) is a collaborative research consortium dedicated to advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) and primary lateral sclerosis (PLS).
View original scientific description
The Spastic Paraplegia - Centers of Excellence Research Network (SP-CERN) is a collaborative research consortium dedicated to advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) and primary lateral sclerosis (PLS). Aims of the consortium are to a) perform natural history studies of HSP subtypes, b) discover and validate biomarkers and clinician- and patient-reported outcome measures, c) uncover HSP's molecular pathophysiology and develop rational therapeutic targets, and d) perform sufficiently powered clinical trials. The current pilot study is aimed at enrolling 100 individuals with hereditary spastic paraplegia type 4 (SPG4) or hereditary spastic paraplegia type 5A (SPG5A).
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
- Male or female patients of all ages with a clinical and molecular diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegia type 4 (SPG4, SPAST) or hereditary spastic paraplegia type 5A (SPG5A, CYP7B1).
Exclusion criteria
- Not having such a diagnosis and/or not being related to such individual.
Where
- Miami, Florida
- Iowa City, Iowa
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- New York, New York
- Cincinnati, Ohio
- Dallas, Texas
- 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 Mar 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations