Evaluating brain tissue health in aging using advanced MRI techniques
Official title: In Vivo Evaluation of Brain Tissue Integrity in Aging Using a Novel Magnetic Resonance Elastography Technique
Funded at University of Delaware · NIH-10993590 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new MRI method to see how stiff the brain is in older adults, which could help spot early signs of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, making it easier for doctors to catch these conditions sooner and provide better care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Delaware NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $44,622 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AG086036-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993590 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include aging adults who may be experiencing cognitive changes or are at risk for neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing any cognitive decline or are younger than 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing and applying a new MRI technique called magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) to assess brain stiffness in aging adults. By measuring the mechanical properties of brain tissue, the study aims to identify early signs of Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias before significant structural changes occur. The approach is non-invasive and seeks to improve the accuracy of detecting deviations from normal aging, which is crucial for timely interventions. The research also aims to enhance the efficiency of MRE to make it more accessible for clinical use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias, allowing for timely interventions that may improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for early detection of neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Delaware
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kramer, Mary — University of Delaware
- Study coordinator: Kramer, Mary
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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.