Alzheimer's markers in adults with Down syndrome
Alzheimer Biomarker Consortium - Down Syndrome (ABC-DS)
This project looks for blood, brain imaging, and genetic signs that show when Alzheimer's starts and progresses in adults with Down syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10906278 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You'll join a group of adults with Down syndrome who are followed over time with regular memory tests, brain scans, blood draws, and genetic checks. The team uses imaging (like PET and MRI), fluid biomarkers (blood and sometimes cerebrospinal fluid), and genetic analyses to map how amyloid and tau build up before symptoms appear. Researchers compare these patterns to typical late-onset Alzheimer's to find shared and unique features. That information helps design better ways to detect decline early and choose measures for future prevention trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with Down syndrome, typically age 21 and older, including those without symptoms and those with mild cognitive changes, are the intended participants.
Not a fit: People without Down syndrome, children under 21, or individuals with severe health issues preventing clinic visits would not be eligible and likely would not benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could enable earlier detection and better tracking of Alzheimer's in people with Down syndrome, helping guide prevention or treatment trials.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have detected amyloid and tau changes in Down syndrome similar to late-onset Alzheimer's, supporting this biomarker approach, while ABC-DS expands on size and detail to answer remaining questions.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Handen, Benjamin L — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Handen, Benjamin L
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 below.