Research is the answer to the questions we have about complex neurological disorders.
At the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, we’re changing the way we approach complex neurological disorders one study at a time.
Clinicians and scientists at the Fixel Institute are engaged in a broad and intensive research program focused on the mechanisms, treatment and cure of complex neurological disorders.
Quicklinks: About Clinical Trials; Participate in Research
Clinical Trials by Condition
ALS, Neuromuscular & MS
Alzheimer's, dementia & cognition
Movement Disorders
Traumatic brain injury
“Healthy volunteers” or people with no known significant health conditions who participate in clinical trials research. View healthy volunteer opportunities at the Fixel Institute.
About Clinical Trials
At the Fixel Institute, the patient is at the center of everything we do – including clinical trials and research.
Clinical trials can give us an idea of how effective a new medication, drug therapy or surgical option is for a specific disorder Fixel Institute researchers conduct hundreds of clinical trials to find and test new treatments and therapies for complex neurological disorders every year.
Where do clinical trials take place?
Location (in-person or virtual) varies based on clinical trial.
In-person clinical trial activities generally take place during your visit to the Fixel Institute. Your clinical trials care team will provide more information based on your clinical trial eligibility.
What information and samples will be collected?
The information and samples collected varies based on the clinical trial. Examples of information or samples that may be collected during your visit include:
- Biomarkers (blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), GI samples, saliva, etc.)
- Demographic information (name, date of birth, etc.)
- Genetic markers (DNA, etc.)
- Health history (date of diagnosis, symptoms over time, etc.)
How is my information protected?
The protection of your information and any samples you provide as a clinical trial participant is number one priority for Fixel Institute researchers. All information and samples are stored securely at the University of Florida, UF Health and Fixel Institute.
We also use an informed consent process that ensures you understand all the protocols for a clinical trial before you agree to participate. The protocol includes the eligibility criteria, treatment plan, medical tests you will receive, safety information and more.
For questions about your rights as a clinical trials participant, contact the UF Institutional Review Boards at 352-273-9600.
Participate in Research
Clinical Trials
If you or your loved one is a patient at the Fixel Institute, you will have the opportunity to participate in research efforts and sample collection for various studies as part of your visits.
Ask your clinic team about clinical trials at your next visit.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Brain Bank
The Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Brain Bank encourages people to consider brain donation after passing for researchers to study and find therapies and treatments for various neurological disorders.
Neuromedicine Human Brain and Tissue Bank (HBTB)
The Neuromedicine HBTB is supported by MBI and CTRND and provides a resource for patients, caregivers and researchers to better understand neurological diseases.
1Florida Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC)
Funded by the National Institute of Aging, 1Florida ADRC evaluates people living with and without memory, dementia and Alzheimer’s to understand the disease.
Movement Disorders Research Database
The Movement Disorders Research Database tracks patterns of a patient’s movement disorder and symptoms including progression of symptoms, effects of medication, changes in motor and non-motor function and more.
Ask your clinic team about the database at your next visit.
Research at Fixel Institute
From basic science discoveries to clinical trials, the Fixel Institute believes commitment to research translates to real-world impact. With research projects and collaborations across the globe, we are focused on finding answers that will improve lives.
