Developing imaging biomarkers for frontotemporal dementia
Official title: Super-Resolved Multimodal Imaging Biomarkers for Frontotemporal Dementia
Funded at University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-11115762 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to use brain scans to help doctors better diagnose frontotemporal dementia and similar conditions, especially in younger people, by spotting specific changes in a part of the brain called the thalamus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hadley, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $205,122 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG087392-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115762 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults under 65 years of age who are experiencing symptoms of frontotemporal dementia or have a genetic predisposition to the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with dementia types other than frontotemporal dementia, particularly those over 65 years of age, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating new imaging biomarkers to help diagnose and study frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and other related dementias. By using advanced imaging techniques, the team aims to identify specific changes in the thalamic nuclei of the brain that are associated with FTD. The study will analyze existing imaging data to validate these biomarkers, which could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses for patients. The research emphasizes the need for tools that can differentiate between various types of dementia, particularly in younger adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools for frontotemporal dementia, allowing for earlier intervention and better management of the condition.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to identify biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach may also be effective for frontotemporal dementia.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Hadley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dutta, Joyita — University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Study coordinator: Dutta, Joyita
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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.