Health & Wellness - North American Prodromal Synucleinopathy Consortium (NAPS): Sleep Disorder Study
Volunteers Needed for NAPS Sleep Disorder Study
Ages 54-75
The purpose of the North American Prodromal Synucleinopathy Consortium is to improve the quality of life and care of people living with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD).
The study is seeking one healthy female and four healthy male volunteers. The purpose of the study is to gain a better understanding of how REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) progresses over time by comparing information between those who do and do not have RBD.
Volunteer Eligibility and Training Requirements:
- Aged 54-75 upon enrollment
- Completed 12-20 years of education (high school degree, college, masters, etc.)
- Willing and be able to undergo brain MRI and Lumbar Puncture in year 1
- No history of dream enactment at night
- No diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, parkinsonism, multiple systems atrophy, dementia, or mild cognitive impairment
- Not a blood relative of someone with REM Sleep Disorder
Details of Volunteer Tasks:
This is a longitudinal study lasting up to five years. Volunteers will participate in study activities including:
- An overnight sleep study
- MRI scan
- Lumbar puncture
- Neurological exam
- Tests of Memory
- Blood draw
Each year of the study will require 3-5 in-person visits to be completed within a 90-day window.
Dates, times, and locations:
- Scheduling is flexible.
- Visits can last 3-8 hours depending on the procedure and volunteer preference
- Visits will occur at various locations including Southdale Hospital and/or several locations on the East Bank of the University of Minnesota Campus.
*Researchers will coordinate specific times and location with volunteers.
Volunteer food/beverage availability: Coffee, tea, and water are available at most visits for volunteers.
Volunteer Compensation: Participants can earn up to $450 per year, plus a local travel stipend.
What to wear:
- During the MRI, participants are required to wear scrubs (provided) and remove any apparel or wearables containing metal.
- For the lumbar puncture, it is recommended to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the back.
Parking/Transportation: Parking will be free or reimbursed for all visits.
To register, please complete the following form
Sleep Disorder Study Consent Screening Survey
Or contact Carly Schroeder by email at schroedc@umn.edu or by phone at
612-626-6499