Investigating the relationship between tau protein and synaptic loss in Alzheimer's disease

A multimodal examination of Alzheimer's disease pathology and synaptic loss

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11068460

This study is looking at how the buildup of tau protein affects brain connections in people with Alzheimer's disease, and it's for anyone from healthy individuals to those with early signs of memory issues, to help us better understand and diagnose the condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11068460 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how tau protein accumulation relates to synaptic loss in Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is a major cause of dementia. By using advanced imaging techniques and blood biomarkers, the study aims to measure these changes in living individuals across different stages of AD. Participants will include those who are cognitively healthy as well as those with mild cognitive impairment. The goal is to provide insights into the biological progression of AD and improve diagnostic methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are cognitively unimpaired or have mild cognitive impairment, particularly those with or without biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not meet the cognitive criteria for participation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using imaging techniques to study Alzheimer's pathology, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.