Creating a non-invasive test for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease using cell-free mRNA.
Official title: Development of cell free messenger RNA-based non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Superfluid Dx, INC. · NIH-10916443 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a simple blood test that could help doctors diagnose Alzheimer's disease earlier and more easily by looking at specific RNA markers in the blood, making it a friendlier option than current tests that can be costly and invasive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Superfluid Dx, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (South San Francisco, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $843,061 |
| NIH project number | 5R44AG078038-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916443 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals showing early signs of cognitive impairment or those at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a non-invasive diagnostic test for Alzheimer's disease (AD) by analyzing cell-free messenger RNA (cf-mRNA) found in the bloodstream. The approach involves using advanced next-generation sequencing technology to accurately quantify cf-mRNA levels, which may differ significantly between individuals with AD and healthy individuals. By focusing on these biomarkers, the research seeks to provide a more accessible and cost-effective alternative to current diagnostic methods, such as PET scans and cerebrospinal fluid analysis, which can be invasive and expensive. This could greatly benefit patients by allowing for earlier and easier diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a simple blood test that allows for early and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using cf-mRNA as biomarkers in various diseases, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in Alzheimer's diagnostics.
Where this research is happening
-
Superfluid Dx, INC.
South San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Toden, Shusuke — Superfluid Dx, INC.
- Study coordinator: Toden, Shusuke
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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.