Investigating early brain changes in Alzheimer's disease using advanced MRI techniques
Official title: Submillimeter resolution diffusion MRI of the medial temporal lobe in the earliest stages of Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11086820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how we can spot early signs of Alzheimer's disease in the brain, especially in areas important for memory, using special imaging techniques, so that we can start treatments sooner and help slow down the disease's progress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $250,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG082377-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease or those at high risk for developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on detecting early changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease, specifically in the medial temporal lobe, which is crucial for memory. By using advanced diffusion MRI techniques, the study aims to identify microstructural alterations and connectivity issues before significant neuronal loss occurs. This early detection could help in administering neuroprotective therapies sooner, potentially slowing the progression of the disease. The research utilizes innovative imaging models to observe these changes, which may not be visible with traditional imaging methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention for Alzheimer's disease, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced MRI techniques to detect early brain changes in Alzheimer's, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bilgic, Berkin — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Bilgic, Berkin
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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.