Identifying biomarkers for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and related dementias
Peripheral Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis of Mixed Pathologies in AD/ADRD
This study is looking for new ways to find out if someone has Alzheimer's or Lewy body dementia before they pass away, by checking for certain proteins in easy-to-get samples, which could help doctors give better diagnoses and care for people with these types of dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11049110 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop reliable biomarkers that can be detected before death to accurately diagnose Alzheimer's disease (AD), Lewy body dementia (LBD), and their mixed forms. By analyzing easily accessible biospecimens, the study focuses on identifying specific protein aggregates associated with these conditions, which can help differentiate between them. The approach utilizes advanced techniques like the real-time quaking-induced conversion assay to detect tau and alpha-synuclein aggregates in patients, providing a clearer picture of their condition. This could lead to improved diagnosis and management for patients suffering from these complex dementias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals showing early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, or related mixed pathologies.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia that do not involve tau or alpha-synuclein aggregates may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's and related dementias, allowing for better-targeted treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using biomarkers for dementia diagnosis, but this specific approach is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Shu G. — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Chen, Shu G.
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.