A quick saliva test to diagnose mild cognitive impairment and dementia

Rapid saliva test for noninvasive diagnostic screening of MCI and dementia

['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · GAIA MEDICAL INSTITUTE, INC. · NIH-10652613

This study is working on a quick and easy saliva test to help find early signs of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease in people aged 50 and older, making it simpler to catch these conditions early and get the right care.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_2']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorGAIA MEDICAL INSTITUTE, INC. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10652613 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a rapid saliva test that can noninvasively screen for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). By utilizing standardized saliva collection methods and validated biomarker assays, the study will clinically validate these biomarkers in older adults. Participants aged 50 and above will be enrolled and categorized based on their cognitive status, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the test's effectiveness. The goal is to create a cost-effective and accessible diagnostic tool that can facilitate early detection and treatment of dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 50 and above, particularly those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 50 or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a simple and noninvasive method for early diagnosis of cognitive impairments, leading to timely interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using saliva-based tests for biomarker detection, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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 →

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.