Investigating brain metabolism in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Brain metabolism during task-evoked and spontaneous activity in aging and Alzheimer's disease
This study is looking at how the brain uses energy during everyday activities and tasks in older adults and those with Alzheimer's, using special imaging tools to see how these changes affect brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10585419 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to understand how brain metabolism changes during tasks and spontaneous activities in older adults and those with Alzheimer's disease. Using advanced imaging techniques like PET and MRI, the study will measure the metabolic rates of oxygen and glucose in the brain, allowing researchers to explore how these rates relate to brain activity. By comparing data from both healthy older adults and those with Alzheimer's, the research seeks to uncover how aging and disease impact brain function and metabolism during cognitive tasks.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those aged 21 and above, with or without Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have any cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential new treatments for cognitive decline in aging and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain metabolism and activity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vlassenko, Andrei G. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Vlassenko, Andrei G.
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.