Blood microRNA test to detect and predict Alzheimer's
MicroRNAs as Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker of Alzheimer's Disease
This project looks at whether tiny molecules in blood called microRNAs can help spot Alzheimer's early and predict who will get worse among adults with normal memory, mild cognitive problems, or Alzheimer's dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11297636 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be part of work using blood samples to look for microRNAs, small pieces of genetic material that help control brain genes and may change with Alzheimer's. Researchers will sequence microRNAs in plasma from people who are cognitively normal, have mild cognitive impairment, or have Alzheimer's dementia and compare the patterns. The project combines samples from large studies (ADNI, Framingham, and a German dementia study) to increase reliability and search for markers that track disease onset or progression. If patterns are found, they may be tested against clinical records and imaging to see how well the blood signals match brain changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (age 21 and older) who are cognitively normal, have mild cognitive impairment, or have Alzheimer's dementia and who can provide blood samples and medical history are the ideal participants.
Not a fit: People under 21, those with non-Alzheimer's neurological diseases, or anyone unwilling to give blood or medical information would likely not benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to a simple blood test that helps detect Alzheimer's earlier and estimate a person's risk of decline.
How similar studies have performed: Previous small studies have reported altered microRNA patterns in Alzheimer's but results have been inconsistent, while blood tests for amyloid and tau have shown clearer promise.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Delalle, Ivana — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Delalle, Ivana
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.