Using computer vision to automate tests for early Alzheimer's disease in rodents.
Official title: Computer vision powered automation of rodent arena for assessment of early Alzheimer's disease.
Funded at Eyenexo LLC · NIH-11007099 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to use computer technology to watch how mice react to things that seem threatening, which could help us spot early signs of Alzheimer's disease, making it easier to tell the difference between normal aging and the start of the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Eyenexo LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 10, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $245,148 |
| NIH project number | 1R43AG090213-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007099 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those experiencing early cognitive decline or related symptoms.
✕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 aims to develop an automated system that uses computer vision to assess defensive behaviors in rodents, which may indicate early signs of Alzheimer's disease (AD). By observing how rodents respond to looming stimuli, researchers hope to identify behavioral biomarkers that differentiate normal aging from the onset of AD. The project builds on previous studies that have linked specific brain regions affected by AD to these defensive behaviors. The ultimate goal is to create a non-invasive testing method that can accelerate research into early AD detection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, improving treatment options and outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using behavioral assessments to detect early signs of Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Eyenexo LLC
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tomasi, Matteo — Eyenexo LLC
- Study coordinator: Tomasi, Matteo
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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.