Understanding brain metabolism in older adults using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Brain metabolism across the lifespan using multi-parametric MRS
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10913575 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain's energy use changes as we get older, especially in people 65 and up, to find new signs that could help spot Alzheimer's disease early, and you'll get a brain scan to help us learn more about healthy aging.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $106,087 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AG080084-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913575 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those who may be at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how brain metabolism changes as people age, particularly focusing on those 65 years and older. By using a non-invasive imaging technique called proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), the study aims to identify new markers that can indicate the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The goal is to establish normative data for brain metabolites across different ages, which could help in early diagnosis and intervention for age-related cognitive decline. Participants will undergo imaging to measure specific brain metabolites, providing valuable insights into healthy aging and the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and better prevention strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar imaging techniques has shown promise in identifying metabolic changes associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zoellner, Helge Joern — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Zoellner, Helge Joern
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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.