NCT06890520 · Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Neurometabolic Profile of Individuals With Primary Mitochondrial Disease
What this study is about
Primary Mitochondrial Disease (PMD) is a genetic neurometabolic disorder, leading to central nervous system degeneration and increased risk of early mortality. There is a strong link between the pathophysiology of mitochondrial disease and biomarkers related to the biochemistry of redox imbalance, involving the levels of glutathione.
View original scientific description
Primary Mitochondrial Disease (PMD) is a genetic neurometabolic disorder, leading to central nervous system degeneration and increased risk of early mortality. There is a strong link between the pathophysiology of mitochondrial disease and biomarkers related to the biochemistry of redox imbalance, involving the levels of glutathione. Investigators will use Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy to non-invasively measure glutathione and other chemicals in the brain to identify redox imbalance in patients with PMD.
Primary outcome measures
Assess group differences in brain chemical levels in Genetically Confirmed Primary Mitochondrial Disease (GC-PMD) compared to healthy controls (HC)
Time frame: Approximately 1 day
Metabolite concentrations from H Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) will be processed in Osprey followed by linear combination modelling of MRS spectra. Water-scaled metabolite estimates will be calculated and corrected for tissue composition and relaxation effects to generate metabolite concentrations.
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
- Must be between 8 and 75 years, inclusive
- Genetically confirmed primary mitochondrial disease
- Receiving standard-of-care treatment including mitochondrial supplements that may include N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a precursor of glutathione Inclusion Criteria for Healthy Controls:
- Must be between 8 and 75 years, inclusive
Exclusion criteria
- MRI contraindications
- In the investigator's opinion, inability to fully comply with research procedures
- Active self-reported alcohol and/or substance abuse, including tobacco-use
- A pacemaker; any metal-based medical or non-medical devices/implants; any non-removable metal-based object (e.g., body piercings, jewelry, etc.) that cannot be cleared through radiologic evaluation
- Any history of intraocular injury or fragment in or around the orbit that cannot be cleared through radiologic evaluation
- Any history of bullet, shrapnel, or stabbing wounds that cannot be cleared through radiologic evaluation
- Past or current employment involving (or exposure to) a metal grinder (e.g., at a construction worksite)
- At the discretion of the principal investigator (PI), any medical condition that will interfere with or prevent the safe completion of the study
- Any female participant with childbearing potential who is knowingly pregnant or suspects that she is pregnant will be removed from the study. (Although there are no known risks of MRI on pregnant females or fetuses, there is a possibility of yet undiscovered pregnancy-related risks. Since there is no direct benefit from participating in this protocol for pregnant females, they will be excluded to ensure their long-term safety and that of their unborn fetus.)
- To note, for this protocol, participants are instructed to lie still in the MRI scanner; there is no contrast or sedation. Participants who do not possess the cognitive and / or physical abilities to perform these procedures will not be included.
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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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 5, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations