How muscle nerves change in ALS and what affects progression

Plain-English translation of NCT06219759 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ ·

What is this trial?

Researchers want to understand how the connection between nerves and muscles changes in people with ALS, and why some people progress more slowly than others. The study uses nerve stimulation tests, muscle ultrasound, strength measurements, and blood tests to track these changes over time. By studying these processes, doctors hope to identify markers that predict how fast ALS will progress.

In ALS, the nerves that control muscles gradually die, but the body sometimes tries to repair or rewire these connections—a process called reinnervation. Some people seem to have better reinnervation than others, which may help slow their disease. This study aims to identify blood markers and patterns that show which patients have stronger reinnervation capacity, potentially opening new ways to predict and treat ALS progression.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are 18 years old or older
you have been referred for nerve testing because of suspected motor neuron disease, or you were diagnosed with ALS within the last 3 months
you are able and willing to give informed consent to participate
you are a healthy volunteer, or you have a slow-progressing motor neuron disease other than ALS

You likely don't qualify if…

you have a previous history of central or peripheral nerve disease
you have diabetes
you show signs of nerve damage in your legs or feet at the baseline visit
you have a pacemaker or similar implanted device
you are pregnant

What participation looks like

If you have suspected ALS, you'll start with one baseline visit including nerve stimulation tests, muscle ultrasound, blood draws, and strength assessments. If you're diagnosed with ALS, you'll return for two more visits at 4 and 8 months to repeat these tests and track how things change. Healthy volunteers and those with other motor neuron diseases will complete the baseline visit only. Most visits involve non-invasive tests and blood samples.

How muscle nerves change in ALS and what affects progression

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)