The Rostock International Parkinson’s Disease Study (ROPAD) is a global observational study focusing on the role of genetics in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The major goal of the study is to characterize the genetics of PD to establish a better understanding of the disease progression, diagnosis, and treatment. Throughout this study, up to 25,000 PD participants from around the world will be tested.
PD can be caused by several factors, including environmental factors, genetics, and aging. In recent years, a growing number of PD related genes have been described – including LRRK2 and GBA. Thus, the identification of new genes and mutations associated with PD will not only improve our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms, but may also lead to the development of new drugs and treatments.
Participants with LRRK2 mutations that meet the eligibility criteria may be offered participation in future clinical studies with our partners who are developing therapies for the treatment of neurodegenerative and other human diseases.
Design: International, epidemiological, observational, non-interventional study
Study population: PD patients
Number of participants: Up to 25,000 participants
First participant in: April 2019
Last participant in: December 2025
Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of genetic etiologies of PD; To identify LRRK2-positive PD participants from the primary strata; Establishment of a biomarker in the LRRK2-positive cohort
Find out how you can participate: ClinicalTrials.gov
Overview of countries that are participating in the ROPAD study. The line marks the headquarters of Centogene GmbH, Rostock, Germany. (© Mapchart contributors)
ROPAD is a global study currently being conducted in the United States, UK, Argentina, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Portugal, Spain, and Israel. Participating countries and the geographic distribution facilitate a broad genetic and ethnic background that mirrors the global population.
The participation in the study is available for individuals between 30 to 80 years of age and who fulfill the following criteria:
As a participant in the ROPAD Study, you will be asked to provide a signed consent form, a small blood sample, and a short clinical history, as well as to perform a neurological exam.
The blood sample will be sent and analyzed in CENTOGENE’s laboratory for mutations that may be relevant to PD.
If you have agreed to being informed about the genetic testing results, your doctor will share the medical report with you.
After receiving your genetic test results, your doctor can provide further consultation. During counseling, you will have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of your medical results.
CENTOGENE is working with pharmaceutical partners who develop investigational therapies for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, as well as others. Participants testing positive for certain mutations and that meet eligibility criteria may be offered participation in clinical studies.
Dr. Jefri Jeya Paul, Senior Clinical Project Manager
Clinical Studies Department
CENTOGENE GmbH
Am Strande 7
18055 Rostock
Germany
Email: jefri.paul@centogene.com
