Investigating smell loss in early Alzheimer's disease

Advanced MR Imaging of Olfactory Impairment in Prodromal Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger · NIH-10802313

This study is looking at how problems with smell might be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease, using special brain scans to see how the brain's smell system changes in people with mild cognitive issues and those who are healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10802313 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how olfactory dysfunction, or loss of smell, can indicate early signs of Alzheimer's disease. Using advanced 7T MRI technology, the study aims to explore changes in the brain's olfactory system, which is one of the first areas affected by Alzheimer's. By examining both resting and stimulated conditions, researchers will assess microvascular and metabolic changes in patients with mild cognitive impairment and healthy controls. This approach seeks to provide a more objective understanding of olfactory impairment compared to traditional methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing mild cognitive impairment or early signs of Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: Previous research has shown that olfactory dysfunction is a reliable indicator of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.