Using infrared imaging to predict neurodegeneration in patients' skin cells
Predicting neurodegeneration in living patients by IR imaging of skin fibroblasts
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIF-LAWRENC BERKELEY LAB · NIH-10433612
This study is looking at a new way to spot neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's by using infrared light on skin cells, which could help catch these conditions early, even before symptoms show up, making it easier to tell them apart from other types of dementia.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIF-LAWRENC BERKELEY LAB (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BERKELEY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10433612 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel method to predict neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, by analyzing skin fibroblasts using infrared imaging. The approach involves exposing cells to infrared light and capturing their absorbance signatures, which may indicate disease status before symptoms appear. By comparing these signatures from human cells with known disease features in mice, the researchers aim to develop a reliable early biomarker for neurodegeneration. This could help in distinguishing between different types of dementia that are often misdiagnosed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those with a family history of Alzheimer's or related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who are already diagnosed with advanced neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of neurodegenerative diseases, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of infrared imaging in this context is relatively novel, similar biomarker identification approaches have shown promise in other areas of medical research.
Where this research is happening
BERKELEY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIF-LAWRENC BERKELEY LAB — BERKELEY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: POLYZOS, ARIS A — UNIVERSITY OF CALIF-LAWRENC BERKELEY LAB
- Study coordinator: POLYZOS, ARIS A
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer disease, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's disease dementia, Alzheimers disease