Research Study Looking for Volunteers
Description:
We are conducting a research study to compare the level of vitamin A in relapsing remitting and secondary progressive Multiple Sclerosis patients who have a normal vitamin D level or are supplemented with Vitamin D to get them to a normal level. We are investigating whether higher levels of vitamin A, certain vitamin markers, and epigenetic findings are associated with lower disease progression both clinically and based on MRI findings. We are also investigating whether higher levels of vitamin D and vitamin A are associated with increased remyelination.
Type of MS: RRMS or SPMS
Number of Subjects: 120
Location: Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center (LA BioMed) located in Southern California
Sponsor: Conrad N. Hilton Foundation
Duration:
This is a 3 year research study, where lab tests, including vitamin A and D levels, retinol binding protein, lipid panels, epigenetic and carotene levels will be drawn every 3 months.
Eligibility:
Individuals with a diagnosis of Relapsing Remitting or Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis AND with normal vitamin D levels (Patients on vitamin D supplementation is acceptable). We will provide for costs associated with lab tests done every 3 months.
Individuals must also be willing to have a basic physical and neurological examination every 3 months, along with their “standard of care” MRIs done at our facility with additional sequences required for the study in Torrance, CA every 6 months. The cost of the MRI is not covered by the study, but most insurance programs will cover the MRIs and we will assist with this process.
Contact:
Dr. Bijal Mehta, MD or
Kristen Berube (Research Coordinator)
(310) 222-3897
LA BioMed
1124 West Carson Street
Torrance, CA 90502