Join Our Study

To investigate the genetic factors that increase susceptibility to Parkinson disease, the UM Udall PDRCE needs the help of many families. We are looking for two types of families to participate in PD research studies:

1) A family in which an individual diagnosed with PD also has a living first-, second-, or third-degree relative (sibling, cousin, niece, nephew, aunt, or uncle) also diagnosed with PD who is willing to participate. Spouses of these individuals who are willing to participate are enrolled as controls.

2) Families with an individual diagnosed with PD with at least one living sibling NOT diagnosed with PD, or parents who would be willing and able to participate. Spouses of these individuals who are willing to participate are enrolled as study controls.

Research study participants are asked to do the following:
-Provide permission to review the medical records of the individuals with PD;
-Review and sign an informed consent
-Review family history via telephone interview, at the family’s convenience.
-Undergo a brief physical examination to assess coordination and dexterity
-Provide a blood sample
-Provide permission to videotape the individuals with PD. Complete a series of questionnaires regarding memory, medical history, and sleep
-Complete a telephone interview to collect data on non-genetic (environmental) factors that may be related to PD

Study participation is free and does not require travel to the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine. A member of the research team will come to the family’s home or other location convenient for the family to obtain the blood samples and to perform the examinations. All information gathered is kept confidential.

Participants do not receive individual results from the study, but we do send general research updates through annual newsletters. Anyone interested in participating in this PD study, or anyone who has additional questions regarding this research should contact us at: