RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Longitudinal Assessment of Iron Rims in MS Lesions

This study is investigating a feature seen in some people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) called 'iron rims' around damage in the brain. Scientists think these might be linked to a more serious disease course. We're asking for blood samples from people who had special brain scans (7-T MRI) between 2008-2012. These samples will help us look for genetic factors that might lead to these iron rims. Some participants will also be offered another 7-T MRI scan. This will help us understand if the iron rims change over time and if they are connected to how MS affects people's daily lives and their disease progression. The goal is to find out more about why some people form these iron rims and what they mean for MS.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust

Enrolment target

100

Start

03 Sep 2022

Estimated completion

31 Jul 2027

Multiple Sclerosis

What is this study about?

Imagine the damage that MS causes in the brain as small patches, called lesions. In some people with MS, these patches have a kind of 'rim' around them that contains iron. Scientists think that these iron rims might mean the disease is more active or could progress more quickly. We want to understand more about why some people develop these iron rims and what impact they have on MS.

To do this, we are looking for people who had a special type of brain scan, called a 7-T MRI, between 2008 and 2012. We'll ask these individuals if they would be willing to provide a blood sample. This blood sample will help us look at your genes to see if certain genetic differences might make someone more likely to develop these iron rims. It's like looking for clues in your DNA that could explain why these rims form.

Some participants will also have the option to get another 7-T MRI scan. This new scan, compared to your old one, will help us see if the iron rims have changed over many years. We'll also be looking to see if having these iron rims is connected to how your MS affects you day-to-day. By bringing all this information together – your old scans, blood samples, and new scans – we hope to learn more about how MS progresses and if these iron rims are an important sign to watch out for.

Key takeaways

Exploring 'iron rims' around MS brain lesions.
Investigating genetic reasons for these iron rims.
Some participants can get an optional follow-up MRI scan.
Aims to understand MS progression better.
Your contribution could help future MS patients.
Participation is voluntary and you can withdraw anytime.

Who may be eligible?

You might be able to take part in this study if you are 16 years old or older and have a confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). You must also have had a specific type of brain MRI scan in the past (between 2008 and 2012) that looked for iron and be able to provide a blood sample. Participants need to be willing and able to follow the study instructions.

However, you won't be able to join if you are unable to give your informed consent, or if you have any medical or other conditions that, in the opinion of the lead researcher, would make it difficult for you to take part safely and effectively.

Quick self-check

Are you 16 years old or older?
Do you have a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis?
Did you have a specific type of brain MRI scan between 2008-2012?
Are you willing and able to provide a blood sample?
Are you able to provide consent for yourself?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll first receive information about the study before your scheduled annual clinic appointment. If you're interested, you might be asked to arrive about 45 minutes early for your appointment to meet the research team, discuss any questions you have, and give your consent to participate.

The main part of the study involves providing a blood sample. This sample, along with your previous MRI scan, will be sent to a university in the US for genetic testing. Additionally, you will have the option to agree to receive another special 7-T MRI brain scan. This scan will be used to compare with your older scan and check if the iron rims have changed over time. Initially, around 30 of these new MRI scans will be carried out, and more might follow if additional funding is secured. The total duration for your involvement would be a single visit for the blood sample and potentially another single visit for the MRI scan, if you choose to have one.

Potential risks and benefits

The benefits of taking part in this study include contributing to a better understanding of Multiple Sclerosis, which could lead to improved care and treatments in the future. The risks of providing a blood sample are generally very low, such as a small bruise or discomfort where the blood is taken. For the MRI scan, risks are also minimal, but you will be screened to ensure it's safe for you. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Nottingham University NHS Trust
Nottingham, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What are 'iron rims' in MS?

They are a feature seen on special brain scans around damaged areas (lesions) in some people with MS. Scientists think they might be linked to more active disease.

Why do you need my blood sample?

Your blood sample will be used to look at your genes to see if there are any genetic links to why some people develop these iron rims.

Do I have to get another MRI scan?

No, getting an additional 7-T MRI scan is optional. You can still participate in the blood sample part of the study if you prefer not to have an extra scan.

Will this study help me directly?

This study is for research, so it won't directly change your current MS treatment. However, the information learned could help future MS patients.

How long will my involvement last?

Your involvement will largely be a single visit for the blood sample. If you opt for an additional MRI scan, that would be another separate visit.

How to find out more

Ryan Mamun

Ryan.Mamun1@nhs.net +447490225520 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.