One of the most unique aspects of the IMSMP is the seamless association with a state-of-the-art research facility. The MSRCNY is an adjoining research center, currently investigating many different aspects of MS treatment and neuro-immunology. The stem cell research being performed at the MSRCNY is particularly intriguing. Such close proximity to cutting edge scientific breakthroughs, provides hope to patients that we will continue to improve our MS treatments on the way to someday finding a cure.

 

Click on the logo above to be directed to the MSRCNY website where you can find a listing of presentations, posters, abstracts and publications.

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Current Clinical Trials at the IMSMP

Clinical trials help doctors and scientists test the safety and effectiveness of new or investigational medications. Many of the medications used at the IMSMP were tested in clinical trials to demonstrate their effectiveness in treating MS. Clinical trials have both potential risks and benefits for people who participate in them. Ineffective medication and possible side effects are potential risks, while receiving treatment otherwise unavailable and helping others with MS by contributing to medical research are among the potential benefits.

 

Below are some of the current clinical trials being conducted at the IMSMP. Click on the name of the trial to be redirected to their homepage.

• DELIVER: This study is looking at Tysabri given as injections compared to the current IV delivery. It is being studied in Secondary Progressive MS. It is sponsored by Biogen Idec.
• The IMSMP/MSRCNY is also involved in the Accelerated Cure Project. This project aims to find the cause and develop a cure for MS.
• The IMSMP is conducting a clinical trial of vitamin D and MS, in which we are investigating various dosing regiments of vitamin D and the effect on MS and MS biomarkers.

• Methotrexate vs. Tysabri  Study for Progressive MS

  This study aims to determine how beneficial intrathecal methotrexate and Tysabri are in treating progressive MS.  The study will look at clinical tests and spinal fluid over a two-year period.

• Rituximab Study

  This study aims at looking at how patients respond to the medication Rituxan by analyzing clinical tests as well as spinal fluid.  We hope to identify markers in the blood or spinal fluid that may predict medication response. 

• Skin Biopsy Study

  This study will look to see if microscopic changes in the skin can help us differentiate atypical from typical cases of MS.

•  Acetyl-L-Carnitine Fatigue Study

  This study hopes to determine if Acetyl-L-Carnitine, a natural supplement, is helpful at reducing fatigue and improving endurance.

Cognition Research

• We have begun a study to examine the association between cognitive dysfunction and the expression of certain biomarkers in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain of MS patients.  If you have already had a spinal tap, an initial cognitive evaluation and a brain MRI you may already be eligible.  If you have these tests scheduled in the future you can participate by allowing us to use these tests, plus a blood draw of 2 tubes, for research.

• Another study is examining the differences in prevalence and severity of cognitive dysfunction between secondary progressive MS and primary progressive MS.

And more to come!

For more information on any new clinical research call Lauren Puccio at 646-557-3856.