A new method for early detection of Alzheimer's disease using blood samples
Official title: High-sensitivity Immunomagnetic System for "Liquid Biopsy" of Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11004151 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, easy way to check for signs of Alzheimer's disease in blood samples, which could help doctors catch it earlier and more affordably, making it easier for more people to get tested.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $509,888 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG067736-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004151 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those in the early stages of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any risk factors for the condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a high-sensitivity immunomagnetic system to detect biomarkers associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in blood samples. By measuring levels of amyloid-β peptides and tau proteins, the goal is to provide a non-invasive and cost-effective diagnostic tool that can be used at the point-of-care. This approach aims to overcome the limitations of current imaging techniques, making early detection and monitoring of AD more accessible to a larger population. The research addresses the challenge of low biomarker concentrations in blood and aims to improve diagnostic accuracy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of Alzheimer's disease, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer's detection, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mao, Hui — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Mao, Hui
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.