Improving brain imaging for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias
Official title: Joint Estimate Diffusion Imaging (JEDI) for improved Tissue Characterization and Neural Connectivity in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11032845 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new brain imaging technique to help us see the small changes in the brain caused by Alzheimer's and related dementias, which could lead to better ways to spot and track the disease as it progresses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,536,095 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG079280-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032845 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals showing early signs of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, as well as those at risk due to genetic or environmental factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing brain imaging techniques to better understand Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It utilizes a novel method called Joint Estimation Diffusion Imaging (JEDI), which is designed to detect subtle changes in brain tissue that occur with these conditions. By improving the sensitivity of imaging to microstructural features, the research aims to provide clearer insights into how Alzheimer's affects brain connectivity and function. This could lead to better detection and monitoring of the disease's progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of Alzheimer's disease, improving patient management and treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for brain disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frank, Lawrence R — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Frank, Lawrence R
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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.