Molecular imaging of cholinergic signals and brain pathology in early Alzheimer’s
Official title: Molecular Imaging of Cholinergic Integrity and Neuropathology in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11447190 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project uses brain imaging to study how the cholinergic system and Alzheimer’s pathology unfold in people at risk for dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $678,939 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG098324-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11447190 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults at risk for or showing early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, including mild cognitive impairment and individuals with underlying risk factors.
✕Less likely to help
Participants without risk factors or early symptoms may not directly benefit beyond contributing to general knowledge.
What this research studies
Researchers will use advanced PET imaging to visualize the cholinergic system and Alzheimer’s-related brain changes in individuals at early disease stages. The study builds on neuropathology and animal model findings to map when cholinergic deficits appear and how they relate to tau, beta-amyloid, cognitive symptoms, and neuropsychiatric changes. By following participants over time, they aim to identify early biomarkers that predict progression and potential targets for prevention or treatment. The work focuses on translating basic discoveries into ways to identify and intervene before significant neurodegeneration occurs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection and targeted interventions that slow or prevent cognitive decline.
How similar studies have gone: Previous imaging studies have linked cholinergic deficits with dementia severity, supporting a continued exploration in preclinical stages.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Gwenn S — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Smith, Gwenn S
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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.