Using blood tests to detect Alzheimer’s disease
Staging Alzheimer disease with blood-based biomarkers
This study is looking at how blood tests can help spot early signs of Alzheimer’s disease before any memory problems start, making it easier for people to get diagnosed sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013321 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of blood-based biomarkers to identify Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology before cognitive symptoms appear. It focuses on three key types of brain changes associated with AD: amyloid plaques, tau tangles, and neurodegeneration. The study aims to optimize and automate advanced blood tests that measure these biomarkers, utilizing a large cohort of individuals with existing health data. By analyzing matched plasma and cerebrospinal fluid samples, the research seeks to improve the accuracy and accessibility of AD diagnosis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease, including those with a family history or early cognitive changes.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any risk factors for the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of Alzheimer’s disease, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer’s detection, indicating a growing field of study with potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schindler, Suzanne Elizabeth — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Schindler, Suzanne Elizabeth
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.