New imaging techniques to study fat and ketone metabolism in Alzheimer's disease

Novel Imaging Biomarkers of Lipid and Ketone Metabolism in Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10884020

This study is looking at how the brain uses fats and ketones in people with Alzheimer's disease to find new ways to help improve brain energy and function.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10884020 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brain processes fats and ketones in Alzheimer's disease, a condition affecting millions. It aims to develop non-invasive imaging methods to better understand lipid metabolism and the potential benefits of ketone-based therapies. By using advanced techniques like deuterium magnetic resonance spectroscopy, the study seeks to provide insights into how ketones can support brain function in Alzheimer's patients. The ultimate goal is to enhance therapeutic strategies that could improve energy supply to the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for Alzheimer's disease by optimizing ketone-based therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using ketone therapies for Alzheimer's, but this approach of using advanced imaging techniques is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.