Finding new biomarkers for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and related dementias
Official title: Discovery of novel tau proteoforms as biomarker candidates for AD and PSP
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11164709 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to spot Alzheimer's disease early by testing different forms of a protein called tau in blood samples, which could help doctors tell it apart from other memory-related conditions and get patients the help they need sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $754,586 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG089522-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11164709 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals showing early signs of cognitive decline or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with non-neurodegenerative cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on identifying novel tau proteoforms that could serve as biomarkers for early detection of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias. The team will utilize advanced blood-based assays to analyze unique phosphorylated forms of tau proteins, particularly P-tau217, to determine their effectiveness in differentiating AD from other neurodegenerative diseases. By exploring various tau proteoforms, the research aims to enhance diagnostic accuracy and facilitate earlier intervention for patients. The study will involve collaboration with multiple research groups to validate findings and improve diagnostic methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer's, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dage, Jeffrey — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Dage, Jeffrey
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.