University Retirees Volunteer Center

Department of Neurology Seeking Parkinson's Disease Study Participants

The University of Minnesota is one of 27 sites across North America taking part in the SPARX3 research trial, a phase III trial/study of exercise in early-stage Parkinson's Disease (PD). Conducted by the UMN's Department of Neurology, Movement Disorders Laboratory, the study's primary purpose is to gain better understanding of the physical mechanisms causing movement problems in people with neurological disorders, and to translate this knowledge to the development of novel therapies and interventions to improve movement function, mobility, and quality of life in persons with PD. If they meet the study criteria, interested persons are encouraged to participate in this important research opportunity.

Details of volunteer duties: This study will assess whether there is greater benefit to completing high-intensity aerobic exercise compared to moderate intensity aerobic exercise in slowing the signs/symptoms of PD.  If eligible, participants will complete two screening visits, one baseline visit, and periodic study visits. Participants will be asked to exercise 4x per week for 18 months as part of the exercise intervention. All study visits will be scheduled in collaboration with both the participant and the study team. The study team will ensure that study visits are scheduled at times convenient to each participant.

Dates, times, and locations: Study visits are completed at various sites on the University of Minnesota campus, as well as Fairview clinics. Some of the sites used will include:

• 717 Delaware St SE Building, M Health Fairview Clinics & Surgery Center, Minneapolis
• M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center, Maple Grove
•  University of Minnesota Health Clinical Research Unit, located in the Phillips-Wangensteen Building at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities campus.

The duration of visits is dependent upon which study visit is being completed, but visits typically range from 3-6 hours.

Volunteer eligibility and training requirements: Only persons who meet the following study criteria are eligible to participate:

• Between 40 and 80 years old

• Diagnosed with primary Parkinson’s disease in the last three(3) years.
• Have not yet started medication for Parkinson’s disease
• Not likely to begin dopaminergic therapy within the next six(6) months

Physical expectations/limitations: Participants who meet study inclusion criteria will be expected to participate in all screening visits, periodic study visits, and treadmill-based exercise sessions. Prior to enrolling in the study, participants will conduct a thorough screening process to ensure that they meet inclusion criteria and are safe to participate in the study. Participants will be supported throughout by study staff, including the clinical research coordinator, a study neurologist, exercise trainers, and the site principal investigator. Any participant concerns and/or limitations will be addressed with the participant’s comfort and safety at the forefront.

What to wear: Comfortable clothing and shoes.

Parking/Transportation: A parking pass is available and provided to participants for all study visits.

Covid precautions and other safety information: Participants will wear a mask during visits when appropriate for the activity.

Volunteers' food/beverage availability: Light snacks are available during study visits if needed.

Volunteer compensation: Participants receive $30 for each completed study visit.

Deadline for volunteer application: Immediate and ongoing

• To register: Interested eligible volunteers can contact Kristin Garland, Research Coordinator, either by email: garl0038@umn.edu or by phone at 612-505-6574

PLEASE INDICATE THAT YOU ARE A URVC OR  UMRA VOLUNTEER