Investigating the link between atrial fibrillation and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Determinants of Alzheimer's Disease in Atrial Fibrillation apart from Stroke: The NOMINATE Study
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10561657 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how atrial fibrillation (AF) might affect thinking and memory in people, even if they haven't had a stroke, by checking for certain markers in the blood that are linked to Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help prevent and manage dementia for those with AF.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $204,814 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS126967-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10561657 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, particularly those who have not yet shown symptoms of dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have atrial fibrillation or those who already have advanced dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart condition, may contribute to cognitive decline and dementia, specifically Alzheimer's disease, even in patients who have not experienced a stroke. The study aims to identify the underlying brain changes associated with AF using advanced blood tests that measure specific biomarkers related to Alzheimer's pathology. By understanding these connections, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the prevention and management of dementia in patients with AF.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early detection and prevention strategies for Alzheimer's disease in patients with atrial fibrillation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using blood-based biomarkers to detect Alzheimer's pathology, suggesting that this approach may be effective in understanding the relationship between AF and cognitive decline.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johansen, Michelle C. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Johansen, Michelle C.
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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.