Understanding brain changes in frontotemporal dementia
Microscopic and Large-Scale Networks of Molecular Pathology in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration
This study is looking at how changes in the brain related to frontotemporal dementia spread and affect how the brain works, with the hope of finding better ways to spot and track the disease early on in people with different types of FTD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10685403 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how molecular changes in the brain associated with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) spread and affect brain function. By combining advanced imaging techniques and digital pathology, the study aims to identify patterns of disease progression in living patients. It focuses on two main clinical forms of FTD, behavioral-variant FTD and primary progressive aphasia, which manifest differently but share underlying pathological features. The goal is to improve early detection and tracking of these changes before autopsy, potentially leading to better treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 40-65 who are experiencing symptoms of frontotemporal dementia, such as changes in behavior or language.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or neurological disorders unrelated to frontotemporal dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatments for patients with frontotemporal dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using neuroimaging and pathology integration to understand neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Irwin, David John — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Irwin, David John
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.