Researchers at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL are seeking individuals living with Becker or Duchenne muscular dystrophy (BMD/DMD) to participate in an observational study using Diffusion Tensor MRI to examine muscle function and structure. The study aims to better understand why muscles in BMD and DMD may be more prone to damage, and how functional and structural changes contribute to this increased vulnerability.
The study
This is an observational study, so no drug or treatment will be tested. The study will enroll 15 individuals with BMD or DMD and 15 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers. Participants will be asked to attend one online meeting to provide informed consent and one four-hour experimental session at the research site. During the experimental session, they will undergo non-invasive MRI imaging of the lower leg muscles and assessments to measure muscle strength.
Study criteria
To be eligible for the research study, individuals must meet the following inclusion criteria:
- Have been diagnosed with BMD or DMD
- Age 8-50 years
- Able to dorsiflex against gravity
- Able to lie still on back in an MRI scanner for 75 minutes
Individuals may not be eligible to participate if they meet the following exclusion criteria:
- MRI contraindications
- Contraindications to exercise
Interested in participating?
Individuals will be compensated at a rate of $15/hour. Mileage will be reimbursed for participants traveling outside of Champaign county.
To learn more about the study or inquire about participation, contact the study coordinator by email at Muscle.MRI@carle.com.
The sponsor recommends not sending sensitive or health information by email unless it is encrypted, as unencrypted email is not a private or secure means of communication.
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