Understanding brain health and vulnerability in aging and Alzheimer's disease

Spatial signatures of brain health and vulnerability in aging and Alzheimer's disease

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11045725

This study is looking at how the brain changes as we get older and in people with Alzheimer's disease, using special imaging technology to find patterns that show brain health, so we can better understand how the disease develops over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11045725 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brain changes with age and in Alzheimer's disease by using advanced imaging technology to analyze brain samples. It aims to identify specific patterns and markers that indicate brain health and vulnerability, moving beyond traditional methods that focus on individual markers. By employing a technique called cytometry time-of-flight imaging mass cytometry, the study will provide a comprehensive view of brain pathology, helping to understand how Alzheimer's disease progresses over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults and individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those without any cognitive decline may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and better understanding of Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise using advanced imaging techniques to analyze brain pathology, suggesting this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
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.