Posted to the HDL: 02 Oct 2006

Predict-HD: Recruiting Gene Negative Individuals

The PREDICT-HD Research Team at the University of Iowa

The PREDICT-HD study is currently recruiting gene negative individuals! Thanks to the HDLighthouse website posting of the recent PREDICT-HD journal article and Will Brown�s wonderful participation article, we have started to receive inquiries from interested individuals wanting to become involved in our important research study. Below we have included an additional study description along with contact information about how to become one of our valuable participants.

Thank you for your interest and consideration!

Background and Study Aims

Huntington�s Disease (HD) is an inherited disease that causes changes in a person�s ability to control movements, thinking, and feelings. The intent of this study is to learn more about the beginning changes in thinking skills, emotional regulation, and brain structure and function as a person begins the transition from health to HD.

Preliminary studies indicate that people with HD may have marked decline before an actual diagnosis. This study will help reveal the earliest indicators of the disease and what factors influence the age at which a person carrying the gene develops the disease. It is necessary to get information on the early stages of HD in order to develop drugs that can slow or postpone the onset of HD. The investigators hope this study will provide essential information for future trials of experimental drugs for HD.

During this study, participants will undergo several detailed tests, including MRI scans of the brain, cognitive assessments, physical exams, and neurological and psychiatric testing.

Eligibility:Inclusion Criteria

• Gene negative individuals: specifically, men and women at risk for HD, who have been tested for the HD gene mutation (CAG <30 for CAG-norm group).
• 18 years of age or older
• Able to commit to a minimum of 4 yearly evaluations
• Commitment of a companion to attend visits or complete surveys via mail
• Able to undergo a MRI

For More Information about Participating

Please contact one of the University of Iowa�s PREDICT-HD recruitment team members who can assist in facilitating enrollment at one of our 32 research sites:

Elizabeth Penziner	319-353-4292	elizabeth-penziner@uiowa.edu
Stacie Vik	319-353-3716	stacie-vik@uiowa.edu

Or visit the PREDICT-HD Link on the Huntington Study Group website: http://www.huntington-study-group.org/ for a full list of participating sites and contact information or call the HSG toll-free at 800-487-7671.

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