Screening study for eligibility for frontotemporal dementia and ALS research studies

Background:

Neurodegenerative disorders can lead to problems in movement or memory. Some can cause abnormal proteins to build up in brain cells. Researchers want to understand whether these diseases have related causes or risk factors.

Objective:

To test people with movement or thinking and memory problems to see if they are eligible for research studies.

Eligibility:

People ages 18 and older with a neurodegenerative disorder associated with accumulation of TDP-43 or Tau proteins

Design:

Participants will have a screening visit. This may take place over 2-3 days. Tests include:

Medical history

Physical exam

Questions about behavior and mood

Tests of memory, attention, concentration, and thinking

Movement measurement. The speed at which participants can stand up from a chair, tap their finger and foot, and walk a short distance will be measured. Some movements will be videotaped. They will be videotaped while they speak and read a paragraph.

Blood tests. This might include genetic testing.

Lung and breathing tests

MRI. They will lie on a table that slides into a cylinder that takes pictures of the body. Some participants will get a dye through IV.

Electromyography. A thin needle will be inserted into the muscles to measure electrical signals.

Nerve tests. Small electrodes on the skin record muscle and nerve activity.

A small piece of skin may be removed.

A skin or blood sample may be taken to create stem cells.

Optional lumbar puncture. A needle will be inserted into the space between the bones of the back to collect fluid.

If participants are not eligible for current studies, they may be contacted in the future.