Using cell-free DNA to understand Alzheimer's disease progression
Official title: Cell-free DNA as a marker of progression in Alzheimer's dementia and its role in chronic inflammation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10725214 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a simple blood test that measures cell-free DNA can help identify people with mild cognitive impairment who might be at greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, so they can get help sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $324,698 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AG078924-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10725214 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cell-free DNA (cf-DNA) can serve as a non-invasive marker to identify individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who are at higher risk of progressing to Alzheimer's disease (AD). By measuring cf-DNA levels in the blood, the study aims to uncover the relationship between cell death and chronic inflammation in the context of MCI and AD. The researchers will utilize digital PCR technology to analyze cf-DNA and its association with cognitive decline, potentially leading to earlier interventions for those at risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for early identification of individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers like cf-DNA to understand disease progression, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nidadavolu, Lolita S — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Nidadavolu, Lolita S
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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.