NCT02855476 · University College, London
HDClarity: a Multi-site Cerebrospinal Fluid Collection Initiative to Facilitate Therapeutic Development for Huntington's Disease
(HDClarity)
What this study is about
HDClarity will seek at least 2500 research participants at different stages of Huntington's disease (HD). The primary objective is to collect a high quality CSF sample for evaluation of biomarkers and pathways that will enable the development of novel treatments for HD.
View original scientific description
HDClarity will seek at least 2500 research participants at different stages of Huntington's disease (HD). The primary objective is to collect a high quality CSF sample for evaluation of biomarkers and pathways that will enable the development of novel treatments for HD. The secondary objective is to generate a high quality plasma sample collection matching the CSF collections, which will also be used to evaluate biomarkers and pathways of relevance to HD research and development.
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
- Age (18-75 years controls, early/late premanifest HD and incomplete penetrance HD, 21-75 years early/moderate/advanced manifest HD, ≥11 years juvenile HD)
- Enroll HD participant
- Capable of consenting or have a legal representative (parent/guardian for juveniles)
- Capable of complying with study procedures
- All participants other than family and community controls must have had a genetic test for HD
Exclusion criteria
- Drug trial within 30 days of any sampling visit
- Changes in medication (antidepressant, psychoactive, psychotropic or other medications or nutraceuticals used to treat HD within 30 days)
- Antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy within 14 days
- Significant comorbidity
- Needle phobia, headache, spinal surgery / deformity
- Clotting or bruising disorder
- Screening blood test abnormalities \>10% outside normal range
- Drug / alcohol abuse
- Positive urine pregnancy test at any screening or sampling visit for females of childbearing potential
- Predictable non compliance or unwillingness
- Serious adverse event related to HDClarity study procedures or any lumbar puncture procedure performed for any reason in the previous 30 days
Where
- Englewood, Colorado
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Houston, Texas
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 Apr 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations