Using eye-tracking to improve early detection of Alzheimer's disease

Multimodal Deep Learning to Assess Cognitive Processes and a Validation of a Visuospatial Memory Eye-Tracking Test in Diverse Populations

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11170825

This study is testing a new eye-tracking test called VisMET to see if it can help spot early signs of Alzheimer's disease in older adults, whether they have memory issues or not, and aims to make diagnosing the condition easier for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11170825 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new digital test called the Visuospatial Memory Eye-Tracking Test (VisMET) that aims to detect early signs of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by monitoring eye movements. The study will evaluate how well VisMET can identify subtle memory impairments in older adults, regardless of their race, sex, or education level. Participants will include older adults with and without cognitive impairment, and the findings could lead to more equitable and accessible methods for diagnosing AD. The research will be conducted at Emory University and will involve collaboration with a diverse national cohort.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those who may be experiencing early signs of cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have any cognitive impairment 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: Previous research has shown promise in using digital biomarkers for detecting cognitive decline, making this approach a potentially valuable advancement in Alzheimer's detection.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer disease detectionAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.