Investigating a brain receptor's role in early Alzheimer's disease
Imaging the alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in mild cognitive impairment
This study is looking at a specific brain receptor that might help us understand early signs of Alzheimer's disease in people with mild cognitive impairment, and it involves some brain scans and tests to see how this receptor relates to memory and other important markers of the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10810844 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7-nAChR) and its potential role in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, particularly in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Using advanced imaging techniques like positron emission tomography (PET), the study aims to measure the availability of this receptor in the brain and how it relates to cognitive performance and specific biomarkers associated with Alzheimer's. By understanding these relationships, the research seeks to uncover early indicators of Alzheimer's progression, which could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients. Participants will undergo imaging to assess receptor availability and provide biofluid samples for biomarker analysis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and targeted treatments for Alzheimer's disease, improving outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of nicotinic receptors in cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coughlin, Jennifer Marie — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Coughlin, Jennifer Marie
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.