Investigating eye changes related to Alzheimer's Disease
Official title: Retinal Manifestations of Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11178828 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Alzheimer's Disease impacts the eyes, specifically the retina, to find early signs of the disease, which could help doctors diagnose it sooner and improve care for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $583,558 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AG088642-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11178828 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals showing early signs of cognitive decline or those at risk for Alzheimer's Disease.
✕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 understanding how Alzheimer's Disease affects the retina, which may provide insights into early diagnosis of the condition. By examining retinal ganglion cells and using non-invasive tests like the electroretinogram, the study aims to identify early signs of neurological decline associated with Alzheimer's. The goal is to develop a simple, cost-effective method for healthcare providers to detect Alzheimer's at its earliest stages, potentially improving patient outcomes. The research utilizes both human tissue samples and animal models to explore these retinal manifestations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's Disease, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying retinal changes associated with Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kraft, Timothy W — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Kraft, Timothy W
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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.