How aging and Alzheimer's change brain connections

Interactive Effects of Aging and AD on Brain Networks

['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11306643

This project uses advanced MRI scans to see how normal aging and Alzheimer's disease together change brain wiring in older adults.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11306643 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

You would be part of a study comparing older adults with and without Alzheimer's using new MRI methods that can see tiny brain structures and their connections. Researchers will look at neurite (nerve fiber) structure and whole-brain network organization to find patterns linked to aging and Alzheimer’s changes. The team will combine microstructural imaging and connectome analyses to find which brain regions become most vulnerable as people age. Results aim to explain why some areas decline faster and could point to earlier signs of Alzheimer’s.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 65 and older, including people with Alzheimer's dementia and age-matched older adults without dementia who can undergo MRI scans.

Not a fit: People under 65, those with non-Alzheimer's brain disorders, or anyone who cannot have an MRI (for example because of certain metal implants or severe claustrophobia) may not benefit from participating.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help detect Alzheimer's changes earlier and point to ways to protect vulnerable brain connections.

How similar studies have performed: Prior MRI and connectome studies show that aging and Alzheimer's alter brain networks, but applying advanced neurite-level MRI in humans is relatively new.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.