Investigating the link between brain chemicals, tau protein, and memory in older adults
Official title: Associations among monoamines, tau pathology and emotional memory in aging
Funded at Brandeis University · NIH-11068820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals affect memory and the buildup of a protein linked to Alzheimer's in people aged 65 and older, using special brain scans to help understand why some older adults stay sharp while others may struggle with memory.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project start | April 16, 2025 |
| Project end | April 15, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $35,300 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AG087628-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cognitively normal individuals aged 65 and older who are interested in understanding their brain health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those already diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how changes in brain chemicals, specifically monoamines, relate to tau protein accumulation and emotional memory in individuals aged 65 and older. By using advanced imaging techniques like positron emission tomography (PET), the study aims to assess the health of specific brain regions that produce these chemicals. The goal is to understand why some older adults maintain cognitive function while others develop Alzheimer's Disease. Participants may undergo PET scans to measure brain activity and tau pathology, providing valuable insights into aging and memory.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and early detection of Alzheimer's Disease, potentially improving treatment strategies for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using PET imaging to study brain pathology, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Brandeis University
Waltham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Markova, Teodora — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Markova, Teodora
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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.