NCT05536388 · New York Stem Cell Foundation Research Institute
Drug Discovery for Parkinson's With Mutations in the GBA Gene
What this study is about
The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) Research Institute is performing this research to accelerate Parkinson's disease research and drug development by using cells from the body (such as skin or blood cells) to make stem cells and other types of cells, conduct research on the samples, perform genetic testing, and/or store the samples for future use.
View original scientific description
The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) Research Institute is performing this research to accelerate Parkinson's disease research and drug development by using cells from the body (such as skin or blood cells) to make stem cells and other types of cells, conduct research on the samples, perform genetic testing, and/or store the samples for future use. Through this research, researchers hope to identify future treatments or even cures for Parkinson's disease.
Interventions
OTHER
Biological Sample Collection
Skin biopsy (2-3mm) and/or blood (up to 50 mL); saliva; excess/leftover biospecimens that were (or will be) collected for other purposes (e.g., medical procedure)
Primary outcome measures
Establishment of a diverse bank of biological samples, stem cell lines, derivatives, and associated information.
Time frame: Baseline
Establish a robust disease signature using a cohort of PD and carefully matched control samples to screen a library of approximately 3,000 compounds to determine whether any compounds improve or reverse disease phenotypes.
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 years or older.
- Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, Gaucher disease, or healthy control.
- Must provide written informed consent unless physical limitations preclude signing.
Exclusion criteria
- For skin samples collected specifically for this study: history of keloid formation, coagulation disorder, allergy to the anesthetic, or anticoagulation use that precludes sample collection.
- For blood samples collected specifically for this study: coagulation disorder or other medical condition(s) that increases the risks associated with blood collection.
- For all prospective sample collections: Subjects who refuse to adhere to NYSCF's and/or a collection site's safety protocols will be excluded. Subjects with an AIDS diagnosis and CD4 count of less than 200 cells per microliter (mcL) of blood will be excluded due to increased risk of infection.
Where
- New York, New York
Collaborators
Silverstein Foundation
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 Mar 3, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations