NCT07752355 · NYU Langone Health
Young Onset Parkinson's Disease Subtypes and Pathogenic Mechanisms
(YOPD)
What this study is about
Young Onset Parkinson's disease (YOPD) refers to a group of patients in which the disease starts earlier in life (before the age of 50 years) and has a profound impact on most of patient's life.
View original scientific description
Young Onset Parkinson's disease (YOPD) refers to a group of patients in which the disease starts earlier in life (before the age of 50 years) and has a profound impact on most of patient's life. Current knowledge regarding the mechanisms leading to development of Parkinson's disease in younger individuals is lacking, but their understanding is crucial for the successful design of therapeutic strategies and stratifying patients for clinical trials. With this research the investigators aim to clarify the contribution of relevant biological processes in patients with Young onset Parkinson's disease to help understanding disease mechanisms and biomarkers.
Primary outcome measures
Alpha-Synuclein seeding amplification (SAA) Assay Results
Time frame: Baseline
Proportion of YOPD participants with positive of alpha-synuclein SAA in central (cerebrospinal fluid) peripheral biospecimens (skin biopsy)
Genetic test results
Time frame: Baseline
Proportion of YOPD participants with positive genetic testing for gene mutations in known PD-associated genes
Differences in clinical profiles
Time frame: Baseline
Differences of the clinical profiles related to motor and non-motor symptoms of PD in YOPD as measured by standard clinical rating scales
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
- YOPD cohort:
- Male or female 18 years or older (inclusive) of any race and ethnicity
- Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) confirmed by a movement disorder specialist and with an age of onset of less than or equal to the age of 50 years old
- Willingness to undergo a skin punch biopsy LOPD cohort:
- Male or female 18 years or older (inclusive) of any race and ethnicity
- Diagnosis of PD confirmed by a movement disorder specialist and with an age of onset after the age of 50 years Healthy Control cohort:
- Male or female 18 years or older (inclusive) of any race and ethnicity
- Never been diagnosed with PD as reported by medical history and as assessed by study PI
Exclusion criteria
- Diagnosis of atypical parkinsonism (i.e. progressive supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration, multiple system atrophy) or secondary parkinsonism (i.e. normal pressure hydrocephalus, drug-induced parkinsonism).
- Clinical history of autoimmune or chronic inflammatory disorder or exposure to chronic immunosuppressant or immunomodulatory medications.
- Dermatological conditions that would prevent performing skin punch biopsies
Where
- New York, New York
Collaborators
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
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 Aug 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations