Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) Study

The Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative

(PPMI) is the premier Parkinson’s research study from The Michael J. Fox Foundation. PPMI helped discover a biological test that can detect Parkinson’s. And the study continues to explore how brain disease starts and changes. Now it needs you.


Benefits of Participation

  • You play a role in better health and care for all

  • You get access to world-class Parkinson’s experts

  • You contribute to the most robust data set in Parkinson’s research

  • Once enrolled, PPMI covers the cost of study-related travel

  • You may be compensated for completing study visits


PPMI is open to anyone over age 18 in the U.S., but certain groups are especially needed:

  • Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease

    PPMI asks anyone who received a diagnosis in the last seven years regardless if they have begun treatment or not to take a scratch-and-sniff smell test.

  • Age 40+ Without Parkinson's Disease

    Age is a risk factor for PD, and so is smell loss. PPMI asks everyone not diagnosed with PD, age 40+, in the U.S. and Canada to take a scratch-and-sniff test.

  • Act Out Your Dreams

    REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is a condition that causes some people to punch, kick, or yell while they sleep. It may be a risk factor for brain disease.

  • Anyone Age 18+ in the U.S.

    Anyone age 18 and older in the U.S. – with and without Parkinson’s – can join PPMI. Share valuable data on health and wellness in our online platform.