Creating a highly sensitive blood test for Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Development of an Ultrasensitive Blood-based Diagnostic for Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10901092 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a simple blood test that can help find Alzheimer's disease early by looking at tiny particles in your blood, making it easier and less invasive than current methods, so people can get the help they need sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,528 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AG087642-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901092 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing early symptoms of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not exhibit any cognitive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a blood-based diagnostic tool that can accurately detect Alzheimer's disease (AD) at an early stage. By analyzing blood extracellular vesicles, which can carry important neurological proteins across the blood-brain barrier, the study aims to improve the accuracy of AD diagnosis compared to current methods that are often invasive or subjective. The goal is to create a cost-effective and scalable test that can provide timely information about the presence and severity of AD, ultimately aiding in early intervention and treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a simple blood test that allows for earlier and more accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer's diagnosis, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Stephanie J. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Stephanie J.
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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.