Single-center Study of Gustation in Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease and Lewy Body Disease Using Gustatory Evoked Potential Analysis
This study, called PI-PEG, wants to understand how taste works in people with early Parkinson's disease and Lewy body disease. Researchers will compare these groups to healthy volunteers. They will use special taste tests that measure brain activity (gustatory evoked potentials) and also look at nutrition, movement, and thinking abilities. The goal is to see if there are differences in how the brain processes taste in these conditions. This might help us understand how these diseases affect the brain and how they develop over time. By looking at taste alongside other factors, the study hopes to find clues about how these conditions change brain function.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called PI-PEG, is looking into how our sense of taste works, especially in people who have been recently diagnosed with either Parkinson's disease or Lewy body disease. The researchers are interested in whether changes in taste could be linked to these conditions. They want to see if the brains of people with these diseases process taste signals differently compared to healthy individuals.
To do this, they will involve three groups: healthy volunteers, people with early Parkinson's disease, and people with early Lewy body disease. Everyone will take part in a special taste test that measures how the brain reacts to different tastes. The scientists will compare these results, along with information about diet, movement, and thinking skills, across all the groups.
The main idea is that if there are differences in how the brain processes taste, especially in how quickly it responds, this might tell us more about how these brain conditions affect people. It could potentially show a link between taste changes and how far the disease has progressed. Understanding these connections could help doctors and researchers learn more about Parkinson's and Lewy body disease in the future.
Key takeaways
- The study explores taste functions in early Parkinson's and Lewy body disease.
- It compares healthy people with those recently diagnosed.
- Special taste tests measure brain activity in response to tastes.
- Researchers also look at movement, thinking, and nutrition.
- Findings could improve understanding of how these diseases affect the brain.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults who are healthy volunteers, or who have been diagnosed with early Parkinson's disease or Lewy body disease. All participants need to be over 18 years old, be able to give their written consent to take part, and have a BMI (body mass index) of less than 30. You also need to not have eaten for at least 2 hours before the taste test.
There are certain reasons why someone might not be able to join the study. These include if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain other health conditions like diabetes. You also can't take part if you've had COVID-19 in the last six months, are a regular heavy smoker, or have a pacemaker. The study also cannot include anyone who is taking medications known to affect taste.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you over 18 years old?
- Can you give informed consent to participate?
- Have you been diagnosed with early Parkinson's or Lewy body disease, or are you a healthy volunteer?
- Do you have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 30?
- Are you able to fast for at least 2 hours before a test?
- Are you NOT pregnant, breastfeeding, or diabetic?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will likely have a few appointments. These will involve talking to a healthcare professional about your medical history and daily life (subject interview), and undergoing a detailed check of your thinking abilities (neurocognitive assessment) and your movement (motor assessment). You'll also have a check of your diet and eating habits (nutritional assessment). A key part of the study involves special taste tests to see how your brain responds to different tastes, which requires you to have fasted for at least 2 hours beforehand. You will also have a simple blood test. The overall duration of your participation is not specified but usually involves a limited number of visits.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Chu Dijon BourgogneVerified postcodeDijon, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is Lewy body disease?
Lewy body disease is a type of dementia that shares features with both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, affecting thinking, movement, and sleep.
What does 'gustatory evoked potential' mean?
It's a special test that measures how your brain reacts to different tastes, showing how taste signals are processed in your brain.
Will I receive treatment for my condition in this study?
No, this study is for research only and will not provide any medical treatment or recommendations for your condition.
What is a BMI?
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It's a measure that uses your height and weight to see if your weight is healthy.
Do I need to stop taking my usual medications?
You should discuss all your current medications with the study team. Some medications that affect taste may prevent you from participating, but many others might be fine.
How to find out more
Vincent SCHNEIDER
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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