Detecting and tracking brain injury-related degeneration and distinguishing it from Alzheimer's disease

Multi-modal machine learning detection and tracking of traumatic brain injury neurodegeneration and its differentiation from Alzheimer's disease

NIH-funded research Adm Diagnostics, INC. · NIH-10709652

This study is working on a new way to spot Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) in living people, especially those who have had repeated head injuries, like athletes and older adults, by using brain scans and other tests to tell it apart from Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAdm Diagnostics, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Northbrook, United States)
Project IDNIH-10709652 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a diagnostic tool that utilizes brain imaging and biomarkers to identify Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and its earlier stages in living individuals. The approach focuses on differentiating CTE from Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, which is crucial since CTE can only be definitively diagnosed post-mortem. The study addresses the need for early detection of CTE, which is linked to repetitive head impacts experienced by various populations, including athletes and the elderly. By analyzing changes in brain connectivity, volume, and chemistry, the research seeks to provide a means for earlier diagnosis and potential intervention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced repetitive head impacts, such as athletes, military personnel, and older adults with a history of falls.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced any form of head trauma or do not exhibit symptoms related to cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of CTE, potentially improving outcomes for affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research into Alzheimer's disease, the specific approach of using neuroimaging and biomarkers for CTE diagnosis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Northbrook, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.