Using a new imaging technique to visualize synaptic density in Alzheimer's disease
Validation of Fluorine-18 radioligand for PET imaging of synaptic density in Alzheimer's disease
This study is testing a new brain imaging method to help see how many connections between brain cells are lost in people with Alzheimer's disease, which could help doctors diagnose and track the disease better, especially in those with early signs of memory problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10794935 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel PET imaging technique to visualize synaptic density in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study utilizes a radiotracer called 11C-UCB-J, which targets synaptic vesicle glycoprotein-2A (SV2A), allowing for the quantification of synaptic loss that correlates with cognitive impairment. By detecting synaptic failure early in the disease process, this approach aims to improve diagnosis and monitor treatment efficacy in patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Participants will undergo PET imaging to assess synaptic density, providing valuable insights into the progression of AD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or cognitive impairment unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better monitoring of treatment responses in Alzheimer's disease patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar imaging techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Yiyun Henry — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Huang, Yiyun Henry
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.