Hippocampus-related memory changes in aging and early Alzheimer's
Hippocampal-dependent memory decline in aging and early Alzheimer's disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11263715
Researchers are using brain scans and spinal fluid tests to learn why hippocampus-linked memory gets worse in older adults and in early Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11263715 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would join a group of older adults who get detailed memory tests, brain scans (both functional and very high-resolution structural MRI, and PET), and a lumbar puncture to collect cerebrospinal fluid. The team will compare the imaging and fluid markers with memory performance over time to spot early changes tied to the hippocampus. Most participants are older adults without dementia, and the study builds on an existing Stanford cohort while adding new volunteers. The goal is to find the earliest brain changes that relate to memory slipping so future care can target those changes sooner.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults without diagnosed dementia who are willing to travel to Stanford for visits and to have MRI, PET, and a lumbar puncture.
Not a fit: People with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those unable/unwilling to undergo imaging or lumbar puncture are unlikely to benefit directly from participating.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help identify early brain changes that predict memory decline and guide earlier interventions for people at risk of Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using amyloid/tau measures plus MRI and PET have shown promise at predicting group-level decline, but predicting risk for individual people remains challenging.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MORMINO, ELIZABETH — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MORMINO, ELIZABETH
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome