Study Goals

To study the effects of Bone Marrow Aspirate on outcomes in Parkinson’s and Parkinson’s Plus patients

Standard Optimization of Autologous Stem Cells by Intranasal and Intravenous Administration to Treat Parkinson’s Disease and Atypical Parkinsonism (PILOT)

Bone Marrow Aspirate

A bone marrow aspiration might sound a bit daunting, but it's a relatively common procedure where we gently collect a sample of bone marrow fluid. Think of it like a tiny biopsy – it helps us learn more about how your body works. Bone marrow is that special tissue inside your bones where all your blood cells are born!

In research studies, we sometimes use bone marrow aspirations to collect stem cells. Stem cells are incredibly versatile cells with the amazing ability to transform into different types of cells. This makes them incredibly valuable for scientific research and exploring new treatments for various conditions.

During the procedure, we'll use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you'll be comfortable. We'll then carefully withdraw a small amount of fluid. Afterwards, you might feel some slight soreness, but it usually goes away quickly.

Stem Cells and Parkinson’s

Parkinson's disease can significantly impact daily life, and we understand the challenges you may be facing. Research is constantly exploring new approaches to improve the lives of people living with Parkinson's, and stem cell therapy is one promising area.

Stem cells are remarkable cells with the unique ability to develop into different types of cells in the body. Researchers are investigating whether stem cells can be used to replace the brain cells that are damaged or lost in this condition. Additionally, stem cells are known to secrete anti-inflammatory factors and promote tissue repair.

Stem cell therapy may offer the possibility of:

  • Improving motor symptoms: Such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movement.

  • Slowing disease progression: Potentially delaying the worsening of Parkinson's symptoms.

Participation

We need your help

We understand that living with Parkinson's can be challenging, and we deeply appreciate your courage and resilience. By participating in research studies, you can play a vital role in advancing our understanding of this complex disease. Your involvement can help scientists develop new and improved treatments that may one day offer hope and improved quality of life for yourself and countless others living with Parkinson's. We encourage you to learn more about the research opportunities available and consider how your participation might contribute to this important work.

Treatment Visits

  • Visits 1 & 3 (Day 0 & Month 6)

    • Cognitive and Movement Screenings

    • Routine Lab Work

    • Bone Marrow Harvest and Process

    • Bone Marrow Aspirate IV Infusion

    • Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Nasal Infusion

    • Nasal and Fecal Microbiota Analysis

    • Epigenetic Analysis

  • Remote Visit (Month 3)

    • Patient Assessments

General Inclusion Criteria

  • Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease or Parkinon’s Plus <6 years

  • Aged 40-75 years

  • Stable Medical Profile

  • Able to ambulate 25m without assistance

  • Willing and Able to Give Informed Consent

  • Able to Participate in Study for 6 months, Including In-Person and Remote Visits

  • Anticipated Survival > 3 years

General Exclusion Criteria

  • PD associated with Environmental Origins

  • Unable to tolerate MRI Scanning

  • Active Systemic Infection or Local Infection of lumbar / pelvic region

  • Concurrent enrollment in another Parkinson’s study or intervention within 6 weeks of initial screening

  • Malignancy diagnosed <2 years prior to screening

  • History of ECT, Chronic Kidney Disease, Auto-immune Disease.

  • Obesity > Class I (BMI>35) and /or Moderate to Uncontrolled Diabetes