Using MRI to predict brain changes related to aging

In-vivo MRI-based prediction of TDP43 pathology in aging

NIH-funded research Illinois Institute of Technology · NIH-10625261

This study is looking to create a new way to use MRI scans to spot a brain condition called TDP43 that can affect memory and thinking in older adults, and it's for older folks who don’t have dementia yet.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIllinois Institute of Technology NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10625261 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a method using MRI scans to identify TDP43 pathology, a common brain condition in older adults that can lead to cognitive decline and dementia. By combining advanced imaging techniques and machine learning, the study will analyze brain characteristics in older individuals to create a classifier that can predict the presence of TDP43 pathology in living patients. Participants will be older adults who do not currently have dementia, and their MRI data will be compared with postmortem findings to validate the approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those without dementia, who are interested in understanding their brain health.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those already diagnosed with dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier detection of TDP43 pathology, allowing for timely interventions that may slow cognitive decline in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using MRI to predict TDP43 pathology is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other areas of neurodegenerative disease research.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 syndrome
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.