Assessment of Blood-Based Biomarkers Associated with Acupuncture Treatment in ALS

TGen, the Translational Genomics Research Institute, is a nonprofit biomedical research institute, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. Principal investigator, Dr. Winnie Liang, from TGen is working with collaborators from the Phoenix Institute of Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture (PIHMA) and Barrow Neurological Institute on an Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) study.

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Our Study

Study Title: Assessment of Blood-Based Biomarkers Associated with Acupuncture Treatment in ALS
Study Description: ALS is a progressive, neuromuscular disorder characterized by degeneration of motor neurons. Currently there is no cure for this disease, and the only available treatment has limited effects. The goal of this study is to determine if acupuncture treatments in newly diagnosed ALS patients are associated with changes in bloodbased biomarkers of inflammation. Inflammatory biomarkers are interesting because they are easily accessible in blood, respond rapidly to changes in the body, and give insight into immune system responses. Acupuncture is the insertion of needles into specific locations on the skin to cause therapeutic effects. It is believed that this treatment may reduce inflammation.
Study Status: Enrolling
Study Contact: Clinical Research Coordinator at: 602-343-8653 or [email protected]
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Who Can Enroll

We are seeking ALS patients, diagnosed within the past 12 months, who are 18 years or older and weigh at least 132 pounds. Patients must be willing and able to provide informed consent and comply with study procedures. Please contact the TGen Clinical Research Coordinator to determine whether you qualify.

Patient Participation

To participate in this study, patients will donate blood samples and agree to acupuncture treatments for approximately 8 weeks. A trained phlebotomist will schedule a time to come to your home to collect the blood samples each week, separate from your acupuncture appointments.

You will also be asked to complete up to 9 ALSFRS-R assessments. Additionally, we will collect medical records, including, but not limited to current medications, lab tests and surgical procedures, as well as a medical history.

Blood samples from participants will be used to look for potential biomarkers.