Improving imaging techniques to assess myelin damage in aging brains
Optimization and validation of quantitative birefringence microscopy for assessment of myelin pathologies associated with cognitive impairments and motor deficits in young and old aging monkey brain
['FUNDING_R01'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) · NIH-10992622
This study is testing a new imaging method to see how well the protective covering of nerves, called myelin, is doing in the brains of older monkeys, which could help us understand and treat memory problems like Alzheimer's disease better.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10992622 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new imaging technique called quantitative birefringence microscopy (qBRM) to assess myelin damage in the brains of aging monkeys. Myelin is crucial for proper nerve function, and its breakdown is linked to various neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. By optimizing qBRM, the researchers aim to provide a more effective and quantitative way to visualize myelin integrity in brain tissues, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of cognitive impairments. The study will involve comparing this new method with existing techniques to validate its effectiveness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or memory issues, particularly those at risk for neurodegenerative diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with acute neurological conditions unrelated to myelin damage may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools for assessing myelin-related cognitive impairments in humans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for assessing myelin integrity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BIGIO, IRVING J. — BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS)
- Study coordinator: BIGIO, IRVING J.
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.
Conditions: age associated neurodegenerative disease, age associated neurodegenerative disorder