Investigating brain imaging markers for cognitive decline related to small vessel disease
Validation of Small-Vessel Disease Neuroimaging Biomarkers in Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy-Related Cognitive Decline
This study is looking at how special brain scans can help doctors understand and track memory and thinking problems in people with small vessel disease, especially those with cerebral amyloid angiopathy, to improve diagnosis and treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10395930 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific brain imaging markers can help diagnose and monitor cognitive decline caused by small vessel disease, particularly in patients with cerebral amyloid angiopathy. By using advanced diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), the study aims to evaluate the relationship between these imaging markers and cognitive impairment. The researchers will explore whether DTI can serve as a reliable biomarker for assessing the cumulative effects of various small vessel lesions on cognitive function. This approach could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for patients experiencing vascular cognitive impairment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline associated with small vessel disease, particularly those diagnosed with cerebral amyloid angiopathy.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive decline not related to small vessel disease or those with other forms of dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide more accurate diagnostic tools for identifying cognitive decline in patients with small vessel disease, leading to improved management and treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using diffusion tensor imaging for assessing cognitive impairment, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Viswanathan, Anand — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Viswanathan, Anand
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.