NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Using speech patterns to find early signs of Alzheimer's disease

Official title: Early Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease: Using Speech Markers to Detect Mild Cognitive Impairment

Funded at Mgh Institute of Health Professions · NIH-10891497 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how changes in speech can help spot early signs of Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment, making it easier for older adults to get the help they need sooner.

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Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMgh Institute of Health Professions
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlestown, UNITED STATES)
Project startAugust 1, 2021
Project endJuly 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$197,127
NIH project number5K23DC019179-04
Project IDNIH-10891497 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who may be experiencing early signs of cognitive decline or are at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Less likely to help

Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how speech markers can be used to detect early signs of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). By analyzing speech patterns, the study aims to identify changes that may indicate the onset of cognitive decline, which is often difficult to distinguish from normal aging. The approach focuses on developing accessible and practical methods for early detection that can be used in various settings, making it easier for older adults to receive timely evaluations. This could lead to better-targeted interventions and improved outcomes for those at risk of developing Alzheimer's.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier diagnosis and intervention for Alzheimer's disease, potentially slowing its progression.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using speech analysis for detecting neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may be effective for Alzheimer's as well.

Where this research is happening

  • Mgh Institute of Health Professions
    Charlestown, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Eshghi, Marziye — Mgh Institute of Health Professions
  • Study coordinator: Eshghi, Marziye

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.