NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease using advanced imaging and computational methods

Official title: Combining Computational Methods, RDoC, and Big Neuroimaging Data to Understand Mechanisms of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease

Funded at Mclean Hospital · NIH-10500666 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how changes in the brain might cause symptoms like anxiety and aggression in people with Alzheimer's disease, using special brain scans to help find better treatments for these issues.

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Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMclean Hospital
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Belmont, United States)
Project startSeptember 30, 2022
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2022
Award (this year)$2,432,945
NIH project number1RF1AG078304-01
Project IDNIH-10500666 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who are experiencing neuropsychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, aggression, or agitation.

Less likely to help

Patients without a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or those not exhibiting neuropsychiatric symptoms may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in Alzheimer's disease (AD), which affect a significant number of patients. By utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques and computational methods, the study aims to explore how neurodegeneration in specific brain regions correlates with the emergence of symptoms like anxiety and aggression. The research employs a framework that links brain circuit dysfunction to the clinical presentation of NPS, potentially leading to better-targeted treatments. Patients may be monitored through functional MRI to assess brain activity and connectivity related to their symptoms.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuropsychiatric symptoms through neuroimaging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Mclean Hospital
    Belmont, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Nickerson, Lisa D — Mclean Hospital
  • Study coordinator: Nickerson, Lisa D

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.