Understanding how amyloid plaques in the brain change over time in Alzheimer's disease

Human in vivo stable isotope labeling kinetics (iSILK) to quantify brain amyloid plaque kinetics

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10509111

This study is looking at how amyloid-beta plaques change in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease to help find better treatments, and it may involve patients sharing brain tissue samples or taking part in imaging studies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10509111 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the dynamics of amyloid-beta plaques in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease using a technique called stable isotope labeling kinetics (SILK). By analyzing brain tissue at different stages of the disease, the study aims to quantify how these plaques form and dissolve over time. This information is crucial for developing effective treatments, especially with the recent approval of antibody-based drugs that target these plaques. Patients may be involved in providing brain tissue samples or participating in imaging studies to help researchers gather data on plaque turnover.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease at various stages.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia that do not involve amyloid plaque accumulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease by providing insights into how amyloid plaques affect cognitive decline.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding amyloid plaque dynamics, particularly with the recent advancements in antibody therapies targeting these plaques.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer diseaseAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's disease dementiaAlzheimers disease
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.