Imaging microtubules in older adults with and without cognitive impairment
PET imaging of microtubules in cognitively normal and impaired older adults
This study is looking at how tiny structures in the brain, called microtubules, change in older adults with Alzheimer's disease, using a special imaging technique to see if these changes can help spot early signs of memory problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10915761 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the integrity of microtubules in the brains of older adults, focusing on how these structures are affected in Alzheimer's disease. By using a specialized PET imaging technique, the study aims to identify changes in microtubules that may indicate early signs of cognitive decline. Participants will undergo imaging with a novel PET radiotracer, which has shown promise in previous studies for detecting microtubule instability. The goal is to better understand the relationship between microtubule changes and the progression of Alzheimer's symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults who are cognitively normal or have mild cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of Alzheimer's disease, allowing for timely interventions and improved patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with PET imaging techniques in detecting brain changes related to Alzheimer's, making this approach promising yet still novel in the context of microtubule imaging.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Solingapuram Sai, Kiran — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Solingapuram Sai, Kiran
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.