Identifying early signs of Alzheimer's disease through language use
Preclinical markers of Alzheimer's disease using psycholinguistic semantic measures
This study is looking at how the way people name animals can help spot early signs of Alzheimer's disease, even before any symptoms show up, so we can find ways to help those at risk sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11089730 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how language patterns can reveal early signs of Alzheimer's disease before clinical symptoms appear. By analyzing how individuals name animals in a timed task, the study aims to develop low-cost and accessible cognitive markers for early detection of Alzheimer's. The focus is on understanding the semantic network of words and how it changes in the preclinical phase of the disease. This approach seeks to provide a non-invasive method for identifying individuals at risk, potentially allowing for earlier intervention and support.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may be at risk for Alzheimer's disease but do not yet show clinical symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who are already diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those with significant cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of Alzheimer's disease, improving outcomes for patients and caregivers.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using cognitive and language-based measures for early detection of Alzheimer's, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vonk, Jet M.j. — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Vonk, Jet M.j.
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.