A new imaging method to visualize microtubules in the brain for Alzheimer's disease.

A blood-brain-barrier permeable imaging biomarker for microtubules in the brain: A first-in-human clinical trial

['FUNDING_R21'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10476281

This study is looking for people with Alzheimer's disease to help test a new imaging tool that can see tiny structures in the brain, which could help us understand the disease better and find new ways to diagnose and treat it.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10476281 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a novel imaging biomarker that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier to visualize microtubules in the brain, specifically targeting Alzheimer's disease. By using a PET radiotracer, the study will allow for real-time imaging and quantification of microtubule dynamics, which are crucial for neuronal health and are disrupted in Alzheimer's. The goal is to better understand the role of microtubules in the progression of Alzheimer's disease and potentially improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in this first-in-human clinical trial, contributing to advancements in understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation would include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to microtubule dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using a blood-brain-barrier permeable imaging biomarker is innovative, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in other neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer disease, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's disease dementia, Alzheimers disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.