Assessing mitochondrial function in individuals with Down syndrome using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Imaging of Mitochondial Complex I function in Down Syndrome
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11145941 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how well the energy-producing parts of cells work in people with Down syndrome using a special imaging technique called PET scans, with the goal of finding ways to improve their health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $208,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG086927-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11145941 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Down syndrome aged 21 years and older.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down syndrome or those under 21 years of age may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to evaluate mitochondrial function in individuals with Down syndrome by using a specialized imaging technique called Positron Emission Tomography (PET). The study will utilize a radioligand known as [18F]-BCPP-EF to visualize and measure the activity of Mitochondrial Complex I, which is crucial for energy production in cells. By understanding how mitochondrial function is affected in Down syndrome, researchers hope to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve health outcomes for these individuals. The study will involve participants undergoing PET scans to assess their mitochondrial activity in real-time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance mitochondrial function and overall health in individuals with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using similar imaging techniques have shown promising results in assessing mitochondrial function in other neurodegenerative conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Price, Julie C — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Price, Julie C
Related research
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-
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-
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DS-ARC: Smartphone-based cognitive check for people with Down syndrome at risk for Alzheimer’s
A smartphone-based cognitive test is being developed and tested for people with Down syndrome who may develop Alzheimer’s disease, to track changes quietly in daily life.
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Immune and NGF factors in Alzheimer’s for adults with Down syndrome
This grant studies why people with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer’s disease by looking at immune signals and nerve growth factor problems.
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.