Improving brain imaging techniques for Alzheimer's and related dementias

High Resolution MRSI for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11082515

This study is working on improving brain scans to better see how Alzheimer's and related dementias affect brain metabolism, and it's designed for people aged 40-80 who have mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082515 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance brain imaging methods using high-resolution magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) to better understand metabolic changes in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The project will address technical challenges that have limited the clinical use of MRSI, such as low sensitivity and spatial resolution. By developing new methods for data acquisition and analysis, the researchers hope to create a detailed metabolic atlas for individuals aged 40-80. This work will involve collaboration among experts from the University of Iowa, University of California San Francisco, and GE Healthcare, and will include evaluations of patients with mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 40-80 with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's disease.

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 improved diagnostic tools for early detection and monitoring of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using MRSI for studying neurodegenerative disorders, but this approach aims to overcome existing limitations, making it a novel advancement.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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.