Clinical Applications
Center for Chronic Disorders of Aging
Clinical Trials and PCOM Affiliates
The CCDA has fostered significant collaboration between both independent clinical
departments and between clinical and basic science departments at PCOM.
Studies related to the underlying mechanisms of action of various clinical therapies
in individuals with Parkinson's Disease (as well as the effect of the osteopathic
lymphatic pump generally) has led to a close working relationship between the academic
departments of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), Bio-Medical Sciences and Geriatrics. Equipment to measure nitric oxide (as a metabolite of eNOS) was obtained to support
work in our departments as a consequence of the CCDA collaboration.
Clinical Trials with Other Institutions
The CCDA has fostered significant collaboration between various PCOM researchers and
researchers at other institutions.
Rowan University and New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging
The CCDA has been actively involved in establishing working relationships with Rowan
University School of Osteopathic Medicine and New Jersey Institute for Successful
Aging at Rowan University to develop clinical trial approaches for Alzheimer's disease.
Drexel University and Premier Research Group
In addition, ongoing collaborative efforts are being pursued with Drexel University
and Premier Research Group to develop an antibiotic clinical trial for treating Alzheimer's
disease.
Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs
CCDA researchers have also completed a five-state collaborative project for the Department
of Defense that included five Veterans Affairs Medical Centers and two osteopathic
colleges documenting the role of progressive maximum effort exercise in modifying
strength, gait, cognition and quality of life in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
International
A CCDA researcher also trained members of a clinical research team in Finland to conduct
a collaborative research project to investigate use of OMT and a pelvic orthotic device
(LevitorA(R)) to decrease back pain and increase function in individuals with lumbar
spondylolisthesis and hyperlordosis.