Identifying early brain changes in Alzheimer's disease using advanced MRI techniques
Developing a validated biomarker of cortical neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease using high-gradient diffusion MRI
This study is looking at how a special type of brain scan can help spot early signs of Alzheimer's disease in people who have mild memory issues or are at risk, so we can better understand how the disease develops before symptoms appear.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11018569 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on detecting early signs of Alzheimer's disease by using high-gradient diffusion MRI, a cutting-edge imaging technique. It aims to identify microscopic changes in brain structure that occur before the onset of noticeable symptoms. By comparing these imaging results with actual brain tissue samples, the study seeks to improve our understanding of how Alzheimer's progresses. Patients with mild cognitive impairment or those at risk for Alzheimer's will be the primary subjects of this investigation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with mild cognitive impairment or those at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better monitoring of Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques to detect early brain changes in Alzheimer's, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Susie Yi — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Huang, Susie Yi
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.