Brain scans reveal inflammation clues in Parkinson's

NCT ID NCT03457493

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Alabama at Birmingham Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study uses a special PET scan tracer called DPA-714 to measure brain inflammation in people with Parkinson's disease compared to healthy volunteers. Researchers want to see if Parkinson's patients have higher levels of inflammation and how that relates to their symptoms. The goal is to better understand the disease, not to test a new treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: DPA-714 (a radioactive tracer for PET scans)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help researchers understand the role of brain inflammation in Parkinson's disease and guide future treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase observational substudy, not a treatment trial. It may not lead directly to new therapies, and results may not apply to all Parkinson's patients.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Parkinson disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PARKINSON DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

UAB Advanced Imaging Facility
RECRUITING

Birmingham, Alabama, 35294, United States

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