Understanding problems with energy in the brain in Parkinson’s
Researchers are developing a brain scan to understand what causes problems with how energy is produced and used in the brain in Parkinson’s.
The new method could help identify people with Parkinson’s to take part in future research trials aimed at improving energy production in the brain.
• 15 people with Parkinson’s
• 10 people without Parkinson’s
Visiting Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield twice:
• Visit 1 will involve a PET-MRI scan, which will take up to 4 hours. Read more about PET-MRI scans on the NHS website.
• Visit 2 will take up to 2.5 hours. This will involve tests of your Parkinson’s symptoms, blood samples, a 3mm skin biopsy and an optional lumbar puncture. Find out more about lumbar puncture in this Michael J. Fox Foundation video.
Travel expenses will be reimbursed up to £30.
For more information, please read:
• The participant information sheet for people with Parkinson’s
• The participant information sheet for people without Parkinson’s
Interested in taking part?
To take part or if you have any questions, please contact Dr Tom Payne by email, [email protected] or call 0114 226 5924.
The deadline for taking part in this research is 1 March 2027.
Sara, who has Parkinson’s, shared her experience:
“I was keen to take part in research as it may benefit people in the future. Everything was explained thoroughly and I had a short test run to make sure I was comfortable in the scanner. Everyone involved was very professional and friendly and made the experience strangely enjoyable. I am looking forward to the next research project!”
Andy, who doesn’t have Parkinson’s and took part alongside his wife, said:
“My inevitable nerves were managed brilliantly by an excellent down to earth group of research staff who made the whole experience very informal, informative and frankly fascinating.”
The Academy of Medical Sciences and the Sheffield NIHR Biomedical Research Centre
NIHR Clinical Research Facility, O Floor
Royal Hallamshire Hospital
Glossop Road
Sheffield
S10 2JF
United Kingdom
Dr Tom Payne
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0114 226 5924