Investigating brain changes in individuals with Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease

Core D: Neuroimaging Core

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10667576

This study is looking at how Alzheimer's disease affects the brains of people with Down syndrome by using special imaging techniques, and it hopes to help us understand how brain changes relate to memory and thinking problems, which could lead to better care for those with both conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10667576 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on using advanced imaging techniques, such as PET and MRI, to study brain changes associated with Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome. By quantifying levels of amyloid, tau, and neurodegeneration, the research aims to better understand the relationship between these biomarkers and cognitive decline. The project will involve collecting and analyzing neuroimaging data from multiple clinical sites, creating a comprehensive database to support further studies. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the progression of Alzheimer's disease in this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with Down syndrome who are at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research initiatives, such as the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, have shown success in using similar neuroimaging approaches to study Alzheimer's disease.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
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.