NCT07403539 · State University of New York at Buffalo
Speech Learning and Speech Production in Parkinson's Disease
What this study is about
Parkinson's disease, a common movement disorder that results from a breakdown in the brain, often leads to challenges with talking, but less is known about the relationship between difficulties with talking and difficulties with learning to understand speech.
View original scientific description
Parkinson's disease, a common movement disorder that results from a breakdown in the brain, often leads to challenges with talking, but less is known about the relationship between difficulties with talking and difficulties with learning to understand speech. By linking these two abilities in individuals with Parkinson's disease using a precision medicine approach, this project seeks to build a basis for new therapies that help people with Parkinson's disease both understand better and speak more clearly.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Intensity learning
Participants will be asked to pair sentences that vary in their sound intensity to one of three colored squares (red, yellow, or blue)
BEHAVIORAL
Intensity discrimination
Participants will hear two sentences that are either the same or different in their sound intensity and will be asked to indicate whether the sentences were of the same or different intensities
BEHAVIORAL
Rate learning
Participants will be asked to pair sentences that vary in their spoken rate to one of three colored squares (red, yellow, or blue)
BEHAVIORAL
Rate discrimination
Participants will hear two sentences that are either the same or different in their spoken rate and will be asked to indicate whether the sentences were of the same or different rates
Primary outcome measures
Mean dB SPL
Time frame: Day 1
The mean speech intensity (in dB SPL) will be assessed using a recording of spoken sentences and a spoken paragraph.
Standard deviation dB SPL
Time frame: Day 1
The standard deviation of participant's speech intensity (in dB SPL) will be assessed using a recording of spoken sentences and a spoken paragraph.
Speaking rate
Time frame: Day 1
The speaking rate (in syllables/second) will be assessed using a recording of spoken sentences and a spoken paragraph.
Articulation rate
Time frame: Day 1
The articulation rate (in syllables/second after removing pauses) will be assessed using a recording of spoken sentences and a spoken paragraph.
Unfilled pause time
Time frame: Day 1
The unfilled pause time (in seconds of pause) will be assessed using a recording of spoken sentences and a spoken paragraph.
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
- Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease
- Native speaker of North American English
- Use a drug that includes levodopa
- Resident of the United States
Exclusion criteria
- Any history of language, hearing or speech disorder outside of Parkinson's disease
- Other gross neurological impairment such as Alzheimer's disease or stroke
- Significant hearing loss and/or use of a hearing aid or cochlear implant
Where
- Buffalo, New York
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 Feb 11, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations