Branford

This research aims to determine if signs of Parkinson's disease or REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) can be detected earlier by examining colon tissue samples taken during routine colonoscopy. Researchers focus on finding a protein called phosphorylated alpha-synuclein that may be present in people with these conditions. Detecting these diseases earlier than usual symptom-based diagnosis could potentially allow for earlier treatment and better outcomes. Participants will undergo their planned colonoscopy procedure without any changes except for the collection of four small additional tissue samples—two from each side of the colon. This tissue biopsy adds only about two minutes to the procedure. No extra visits are required after the colonoscopy, and the samples will be tested for the alpha-synuclein protein to see if it can indicate the presence of Parkinson's or RBD. During the study, participants will have their colonoscopy as scheduled, with the additional tissue sampling performed during the procedure. Researchers will monitor for the detection of phosphorylated alpha-synuclein in the biopsied colon tissue. Participants will not receive individual test results. The study involves about 40 people, including those diagnosed with Parkinson's or RBD, and aims to advance knowledge for earlier disease detection. Participation time is limited to the colonoscopy appointment itself, with no extra follow-ups required.

Researchers are evaluating the Shield blood test as a screening tool for colorectal cancer (CRC) in people aged 45 to 81 who are at average risk for CRC. This study aims to assess how well the Shield test performs during a second round of testing, using colonoscopy as the standard comparison. Colorectal cancer is a common and serious disease, especially in older adults, and early detection through screening can reduce mortality by catching cancer at earlier, more treatable stages. Participants will undergo the Shield blood test as part of their standard care. The study focuses on average-risk individuals who do not have symptoms or high-risk factors for CRC. The performance of the Shield test will be monitored over a period of 33 to 42 months after enrollment to evaluate its effectiveness compared to colonoscopy results. During the study, participants will follow study procedures and standard care assessments. Researchers will measure the performance of the Shield test in detecting colorectal cancer and its precursors during the second testing interval. This includes ongoing monitoring and data collection to understand the test's accuracy and reliability in a real-world setting, with a total follow-up period extending beyond two and a half years.