Investigating brain connectivity in aging and Alzheimer's disease
High-resolution diffusion imaging of brain connectivity in healthy aging and Alzheimer's disease
This study is looking at how the connections in the brain change as we age and in people with Alzheimer's disease, using special brain scans to help us understand how these changes might affect memory and attention.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088696 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how brain connectivity changes in healthy aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD) by using advanced imaging techniques. It employs high-resolution diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) to examine the white matter pathways in the brain, which are crucial for cognitive functions like attention and memory. By comparing standard and high-resolution imaging methods, the study aims to provide insights into how these changes in connectivity relate to cognitive decline. Patients may undergo MRI scans to help researchers gather data on brain structure and function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with no cognitive impairment or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for cognitive decline in aging and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in using high-resolution DWI to better understand brain connectivity, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Merenstein, Jenna L — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Merenstein, Jenna L
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.