RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Non-invasive Detection of Volatile Metabolites in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease can be hard to diagnose early because symptoms often only show up later. This study aims to find a new, non-invasive (meaning it doesn't involve needles or surgery) way to diagnose it sooner, using a simple breath test. Researchers believe that tiny molecules in our breath and changes in the bacteria in our gut could give clues about the disease even before symptoms appear. They will analyse these breath molecules and also consider gut bacteria changes. By finding Parkinson's disease earlier, treatments could start sooner, potentially improving health outcomes and quality of life for patients. The study hopes to tell the difference between people with early Parkinson's and those without the condition.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Imperial College London

Enrolment target

120

Start

25 Jan 2023

Estimated completion

30 Jan 2025

Parkinson Disease

What is this study about?

Parkinson's disease is a common condition that affects the brain and how you move. Right now, doctors mainly diagnose it by looking at physical symptoms like shaking, stiffness, or slow movement. The problem is, these symptoms often don't appear until the condition has already progressed quite a bit. This means there isn't a simple test available yet to catch Parkinson's in its very early stages.

This study hopes to change that by exploring a new and easy way to diagnose Parkinson's much sooner: a breath test. Imagine just breathing into a device! Our bodies release tiny molecules into our breath. These molecules can reflect what's happening inside us, including signs of illness. Researchers in this study will collect and analyse these breath molecules. They're also interested in how changes in the natural bacteria found in our gut might be linked to Parkinson's disease, as these changes can sometimes happen years before any symptoms show.

The main goal is to combine the information from people's breath with what we know about gut bacteria changes to develop a reliable test. If we can diagnose Parkinson's earlier, treatments might be able to start sooner. This could make a big difference in managing the condition, potentially improving people's health and how they live their daily lives.

Key takeaways

This study aims to find a new, easy way to diagnose Parkinson's disease much earlier.
It uses a simple breath test to look for tiny molecules linked to the condition.
Researchers are also interested in how gut bacteria changes might play a role.
The goal is to help people get treatment sooner, potentially improving their health.
Participation is non-invasive and considered low risk.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two main groups of people: those who have Parkinson's disease or are suspected of having it, and healthy volunteers. Both groups need to be aged between 18 and 90 years old and be able to understand and agree to take part in the study.

There are also some specific health requirements. For at least the last four weeks, you shouldn't have been taking antibiotics or probiotics (supplements that contain live bacteria). Also, you shouldn't have a formal diagnosis of conditions related to unhealthy gut bacteria.

The healthy volunteers might be partners or carers of someone with Parkinson's, but that's not a requirement. They just need to be generally healthy and meet the age and other criteria.

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 between 18 and 90 years old?
Do you have Parkinson's disease, or are you a healthy volunteer?
Have you avoided antibiotics or probiotics for the last four weeks?
Do you feel well enough to understand and agree to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The study does not specify particular visits or assessments, but it will involve collecting breath samples. It is a non-invasive study, meaning it won't involve surgery or needles. You will be asked if you are taking any antibiotics or probiotics and whether you have certain gut conditions. The duration of your participation is not detailed, but generally, studies involving breath tests are usually relatively short and straightforward. There will be no medication changes related to this study. You will likely provide breath samples and possibly information about your health history.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study is considered very low risk, as it involves a simple, non-invasive breath test. There are no known direct medical benefits to you from participating, but your contribution could greatly help researchers develop a much-needed early diagnostic test for Parkinson's disease, benefiting future patients. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College London
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a 'non-invasive' test?

It means the test doesn't involve any needles, surgery, or breaking the skin – like a breath test, it's very gentle.

Why is early diagnosis of Parkinson's important?

Catching Parkinson's disease earlier could mean treatments can start sooner, which might help manage symptoms better and improve quality of life.

What are 'volatile metabolites'?

These are tiny molecules that our bodies produce and release, for example, in our breath. They can give clues about our health.

Do I need to change my medication to join?

No, you don't need to change any regular medication. However, you should not have taken antibiotics or probiotics in the last four weeks.

Will taking part affect my current medical care?

No, participating in this study will not affect any medical care you are currently receiving for Parkinson's or any other condition.

How to find out more

Ilaria Belluomo, Dr

i.belluomo@imperial.ac.uk 020 7589 5111 Official trial record

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