Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Cognition Evolution and MRI Markers in PPMS Patients on 2 Years

This study is exploring how thinking and memory, often called 'cognition', are affected in people with a type of multiple sclerosis called primary progressive MS (PPMS). We know that many people with MS experience changes in their thinking, which can impact their daily life. Unlike other types of MS, less is known about these changes in PPMS and why they happen. Researchers will use different tests to check memory and thinking skills, and advanced MRI brain scans to see how brain structure changes over two years. By comparing people with PPMS to healthy individuals, the study hopes to gain a clearer understanding of what causes these cognitive changes and how they develop in PPMS. This could help improve how we understand and support people living with this condition.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Hospital, Bordeaux

Enrolment target

Start

24 Sep 2018

Estimated completion

01 Mar 2026

Multiple Sclerosis, Primary Progressive

What is this study about?

This research is looking into how thinking and memory skills, often called "cognition," are affected in people with a specific type of multiple sclerosis (MS) called primary progressive MS (PPMS). We know that difficulties with thinking and memory are quite common in people with MS – affecting between 40 to 60% of them. These difficulties can sometimes make everyday life harder and affect a person's work.

Up until now, we haven't known as much about these thinking and memory changes in PPMS compared to other types of MS. Scientists believe that inflammation and changes in certain parts of the brain might play a key role. This study aims to get a clearer picture of how these thinking and memory skills change over two years and what's happening in the brain that might cause these changes.

To do this, researchers will use a combination of tests for thinking and memory, alongside special brain scans called MRI. These advanced MRI scans can look closely at different parts of the brain to see if there are any specific changes that link to problems with thinking. By comparing people with PPMS to healthy individuals, the study hopes to uncover important clues that could help us better understand and support people living with PPMS in the future.

Key takeaways

The study explores how thinking and memory change in primary progressive MS (PPMS).
It uses special brain scans (MRI) to understand these changes.
Participation lasts for two years and involves several assessments.
The goal is to improve understanding of PPMS to help future patients.
Patients with PPMS and healthy volunteers are needed.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, you would need to be 18 years old or older. If you have Primary Progressive MS (PPMS), you must have been diagnosed with it within the last 15 years. You also need to be a native French speaker and have health insurance.

For healthy volunteers, you must also be 18 or over, a native French speaker, and have health insurance. Family history of MS would prevent you from taking part, even if you are otherwise healthy.

There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have other serious neurological conditions, certain mental health conditions, issues with alcohol or drug use, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You also can't participate if you have something that prevents you from having an MRI scan, such as a pacemaker or certain metal implants in your body.

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 18 years old or older?
Do you have Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) diagnosed within the last 15 years?
Are you a native French speaker?
Are you able to have an MRI scan (e.g., no pacemaker or certain metal implants)?
Do you have health insurance?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you will have several assessments over a two-year period. These will include different types of tests to check your thinking and memory skills, as well as how you feel in general. You will also have special brain scans called MRI. The exact number of visits and the full schedule would be explained in detail by the study team. You won't be given any new medication as part of this study, as it focuses on understanding changes over time. The total duration of your participation would be two years.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in research studies doesn't always offer a direct benefit to you personally, but the information gathered could help improve understanding and care for people with PPMS in the future. The main risks involve the time commitment for appointments and potential discomfort from the MRI scan, though these are generally safe procedures. You will be able to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (3)

CHU de Bordeaux
Verified postcode
Bordeaux, France
CHU de Limoges
Verified postcode
Limoges, France
CHU de Poitiers
Verified postcode
Poitiers, France

Common questions

What is 'cognition'?

Cognition refers to your thinking skills, like memory, paying attention, problem-solving, and how quickly you process information.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a type of scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body, including your brain.

Will I get results from my scans or tests?

The study team will explain their policy on sharing results with participants. Typically, individual research results are not shared directly, but you can ask about this.

Do I have to stop my current MS treatment?

This study does not involve new medication. You should continue with any prescribed treatments as normal, but tell the study team about all your medications.

How long will each study visit take?

The study team will be able to tell you the approximate length of each visit, as it will involve a few different assessments.