Spinal fluid particles as biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease
Human Cerebrospinal Fluid Extracellular Vesicles: Utility as Disease Specific Biomarkers and Impact on Alzheimer's Disease Pathology
['FUNDING_R01'] · OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11299536
This project looks at tiny particles in spinal fluid to find signals that help tell if older adults have Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PORTLAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11299536 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be asked to donate a small sample of spinal fluid so researchers can isolate tiny particles called extracellular vesicles and study their small RNA and protein contents. The team will measure levels of amyloid‑beta (Aβ42) and tau proteins in cerebrospinal fluid and combine those tests with EV microRNA and protein patterns to improve identification of Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment. They will also compare results by sex and APOE‑e4 genetic status and study whether EVs can carry and spread amyloid and tau between brain cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults (typically 65+) with mild cognitive impairment or suspected Alzheimer's and healthy older volunteers willing to provide a spinal fluid sample for comparison.
Not a fit: People who are unwilling or unable to undergo a lumbar puncture, or who have other non‑Alzheimer's causes of cognitive change, may not directly benefit from this specific biomarker work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to more accurate and earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's using spinal fluid tests, helping people get appropriate care sooner.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier studies, including by these investigators, found CSF microRNAs and Aβ42:total tau measures can distinguish Alzheimer's from healthy controls, so this work builds on promising but still-developing evidence.
Where this research is happening
PORTLAND, UNITED STATES
- OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY — PORTLAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SAUGSTAD, JULIE ANNE — OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SAUGSTAD, JULIE ANNE
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 below.