Blood Tests for Predicting Alzheimer's Disease and Cognitive Decline
Blood amyloid, tau, and neurodegeneration biomarkers and prediction of clinical onset, cognitive decline, and dementia diagnosis
This project is developing simple blood tests to help doctors accurately identify Alzheimer's disease and predict how it might progress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11095954 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Doctors currently rely on expensive and invasive tests like spinal fluid analysis or brain scans to diagnose Alzheimer's disease. Our team is working to create simple blood tests that can accurately detect signs of Alzheimer's, such as amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which are key indicators of the disease. We've already identified promising blood markers and are now exploring how these new tests can best be used to predict when symptoms might start, how quickly memory might decline, and who might benefit most from new treatments. This could make diagnosing Alzheimer's much easier and more widely available, especially for communities that currently lack access to specialized care.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals concerned about Alzheimer's disease, those experiencing cognitive changes, or people who may need an accurate diagnosis to access new therapies.
Not a fit: Patients who are not seeking an Alzheimer's diagnosis or who do not have concerns about cognitive decline would not directly benefit from this specific diagnostic tool.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these blood tests could provide a simpler, less invasive, and more accessible way to diagnose Alzheimer's disease and guide treatment decisions for many patients.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon previous successful findings from our ongoing studies, which have already identified accurate blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bateman, Randall J — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Bateman, Randall J
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.