Identifying early signs of Alzheimer's disease using brain imaging and cognitive tests

Developing novel cognitive and neuroimaging markers of early Alzheimers disease pathologies

NIH-funded research Brown University · NIH-10879027

This study is looking for early signs of Alzheimer's in older adults who seem healthy by using brain scans and memory tests, so we can better understand and treat the disease before it gets worse.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10879027 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to discover new cognitive and neuroimaging markers that can detect early changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease, particularly in older adults who appear clinically healthy. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques like positron emission tomography (PET), the study will examine the presence of beta-amyloid plaques and tau-protein tangles, which are key indicators of Alzheimer's pathology. Participants will undergo a series of cognitive tests and brain scans to help differentiate between healthy aging and early signs of Alzheimer's. The goal is to improve early diagnosis and treatment monitoring for individuals at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include cognitively normal older adults and healthy young adults.

Not a fit: Patients with diagnosed Alzheimer's disease or 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 diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, allowing for timely interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using neuroimaging and cognitive assessments to identify early Alzheimer's pathology, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.