Understanding rigid preoccupations in certain types of dementia

Rigid Preoccupations in Right Temporal Degeneration: Phenomenology and Neural Mechanisms

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11039737

This study looks at how people with certain types of dementia, like bvFTD and svPPA, develop strong, focused interests and behaviors, and aims to better understand these patterns to help improve care and support for patients and their families.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11039737 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how individuals with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and semantic variant primary progressive aphasia (svPPA) develop intense, narrow interests and behaviors known as rigid preoccupations. The study aims to explore the phenomenology of these behaviors through qualitative methods and analyze existing research to better understand the underlying neural mechanisms. By identifying and measuring these symptoms, the research seeks to improve diagnosis and clinical care for patients with dementia. Patients and caregivers may benefit from insights that enhance understanding and management of these behaviors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia or semantic variant primary progressive aphasia.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or cognitive impairments unrelated to rigid preoccupations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for patients with dementia who exhibit rigid preoccupations.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on rigid preoccupations in bvFTD and svPPA is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding behavioral symptoms in dementia.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.