Using dried blood spots to measure Alzheimer's disease biomarkers

Potential of Dried Blood Spots for Measurement of Alzheimer's Disease Biomarkers

['FUNDING_R21'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-10983515

This study is looking at whether people can easily collect their own dried blood samples at home with a fingerstick to help track changes related to Alzheimer's disease, making it simpler and less invasive to monitor the condition over time.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10983515 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of using dried blood spots (DBS) collected through a simple fingerstick method at home to measure biomarkers associated with Alzheimer's disease. By allowing patients to collect their own samples, this approach aims to make the process less invasive and more convenient, potentially leading to more frequent monitoring of disease progression. The study will validate the accuracy and stability of these DBS samples compared to traditional blood collection methods. If successful, this could enhance the ability to detect changes in Alzheimer's pathology over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who are able to perform self-collection of blood samples.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those unable to perform the fingerstick collection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a less invasive and more accessible method for monitoring Alzheimer's disease biomarkers, improving patient care.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using dried blood spots for various biomarker measurements, but this specific application for Alzheimer's disease is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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 →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease biological marker, Alzheimer's disease pathology

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.