Identifying retinal biomarkers for different types of frontotemporal degeneration and nonamnestic Alzheimer's disease

Human Retinal Imaging Biomarkers for FTLD-Tau in Relation to FTLD-TDP and Nonamnestic AD

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10738848

This study is looking at how special eye scans can help doctors spot differences between types of frontotemporal degeneration and a form of Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of improving treatment and understanding of these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10738848 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of retinal imaging to identify specific biomarkers that can differentiate between various forms of frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) and nonamnestic Alzheimer's disease (naAD). By employing advanced optical coherence tomography (OCT), the study aims to detect abnormalities in retinal images that correlate with the underlying proteinopathies associated with these conditions. The goal is to enhance the ability to predict clinical outcomes and facilitate the development of targeted therapies. Patients will undergo retinal imaging assessments as part of this interdisciplinary approach to better understand the disease mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal degeneration or nonamnestic Alzheimer's disease, particularly those under 65 years of age.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or neurodegenerative diseases not related to frontotemporal degeneration or nonamnestic Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for patients with frontotemporal degeneration and related disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using retinal imaging to identify biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.