Understanding brain health in centenarians and superagers
Neuroimaging Core
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS · NIH-10907589
This study is looking at how certain strengths help people who are 100 years old and older keep their brains healthy and sharp, using special brain scans to learn more about their brain structure and function.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10907589 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain resilience factors influence brain aging and cognitive function in individuals aged 100 and older, known as 'superagers.' It involves advanced neuroimaging techniques, specifically using high-resolution MRI scans, to analyze brain structure and function across three major imaging centers. The study aims to standardize data collection and analysis to identify key brain characteristics that support preserved cognitive abilities in this unique population. By examining brain networks and connectivity, the research seeks to uncover insights that could lead to improved understanding of aging and dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are centenarians and individuals aged 100 years and older who exhibit preserved cognitive function.
Not a fit: Patients with significant cognitive impairment or those under 100 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for maintaining cognitive health in older adults, potentially delaying or preventing dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain health in older adults, but this specific approach focusing on superagers is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BOOKHEIMER, SUSAN Y — BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS
- Study coordinator: BOOKHEIMER, SUSAN Y
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease