How early Tau pathology affects memory and mental health in Parkinson's disease
The impact of early Tau pathology on cognitive progression and neuropsychiatric symptoms in Parkinson's disease
This study is looking at how early signs of a protein called Tau might affect thinking and memory in people with Parkinson's disease, using special brain scans to help understand when these changes happen, so we can find better ways to support those who might develop dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10674733 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between early Tau pathology and cognitive decline in individuals with Parkinson's disease. By using advanced imaging techniques like simultaneous PET/MRI, the study aims to identify the onset of Tau pathology in living patients and its impact on cognitive progression and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The goal is to better understand when Alzheimer's disease-related changes occur in Parkinson's patients, which could inform treatment strategies. This research could lead to more targeted therapies for those at risk of developing dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who may be at risk for developing cognitive impairment or dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not exhibit any cognitive symptoms or those with advanced dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier interventions and more effective treatments for cognitive decline in Parkinson's disease patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to study neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Poston, Kathleen Lombard — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Poston, Kathleen Lombard
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.