Using portable MRI to study Alzheimer's disease in rural South Africa
Official title: Enhancing Alzheimer's-related research in rural South Africa with portable MRI
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11033614 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to better understand Alzheimer's disease and related memory issues in rural South Africa by using a special type of portable MRI, which will help researchers learn more about how the disease affects the brain in these communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $539,352 |
| NIH project number | 1UG3AG090558-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033614 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living in rural South Africa who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in rural South Africa or who do not have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve the understanding of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in rural South Africa by utilizing portable, low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The project will assess brain atrophy and cerebrovascular disease in a population-representative study, addressing the challenges of conducting such research in low- and middle-income countries. By leveraging new technology, the study seeks to enhance the research infrastructure for Alzheimer's disease in these underserved areas, ultimately providing valuable insights into the disease's impact and progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnosis and understanding of Alzheimer's disease in rural populations, improving patient care and treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using portable MRI technology for brain imaging, indicating potential success for this novel approach in studying Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brickman, Adam M — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Brickman, Adam M
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.