Tiny RNA markers in blood particles for Alzheimer’s detection
ncRNAs in plasma EVs of AD patients and their discriminatory power as biomarkers
This project looks for tiny RNA pieces carried in blood particles that could signal Alzheimer’s disease in people with memory problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11297688 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would give small blood samples so researchers can isolate plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) and measure small nucleolar RNAs (SNORD115 and SNORD116) using very sensitive digital PCR. The team will compare RNA levels in people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s to non-demented controls and relate EV RNA abundance to brain expression and disease stage. Researchers aim to validate whether these protected RNA fragments in EVs can reliably distinguish Alzheimer's from other conditions and track progression. The work combines analysis of human patient samples with laboratory assay validation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with memory complaints, mild cognitive impairment, or a clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease who can provide blood samples and relevant medical information.
Not a fit: People without Alzheimer’s pathology, those with other non‑Alzheimer dementias, or individuals unwilling/unable to give blood are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could enable a less invasive, highly sensitive blood test to help detect or monitor Alzheimer’s earlier than current methods.
How similar studies have performed: Blood tests for amyloid and tau have shown promise for Alzheimer’s, but using snoRNAs in plasma EVs is a novel and largely unproven approach so far.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lefterov, Iliya — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Lefterov, Iliya
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.