Using Tau PET/CT Imaging to Understand Alzheimer's Disease

Tau PET/CT Imaging in the Mismatch Prospective Cohort Study (MPC-TAU)

Observational University of Pennsylvania · NCT05658913

This study is testing how Tau PET/CT scans can help us understand the differences in symptoms and brain changes in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer's Disease.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 120 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pennsylvania Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05658913 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to collect Tau PET/CT imaging data from older adults diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer's Disease. Participants, who are already enrolled in the Mismatch Prospective Cohort Study, will undergo PET/CT scans using the radiotracer AV-1451 to explore the relationship between tau pathology and various clinical and cognitive biomarkers. The findings are expected to shed light on the phenotypic variability of Alzheimer's Disease and related conditions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include older adults diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer's Disease who are enrolled in the Mismatch Prospective Cohort Study.

Not a fit: Patients with significant medical or psychiatric conditions that could compromise their safety or participation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of Alzheimer's Disease, potentially leading to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies utilizing tau imaging have shown promise in understanding Alzheimer's pathology, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Enrolled in MPC study (Protocol 850160 at UPenn; Protocol 2022P002447 at MGH).
2. Reliable study partner to accompany participant to the PET/CT scan
3. A brain MRI must be performed within 6 months prior to their study AV-1451 TAU PET/CT scan date and be deemed of adequate quality that the scan may be used for study analysis, including 3T high-resolution imaging of medial temporal lobe structures.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Have any medical or psychiatric conditions that, in the opinion of the investigator, would compromise the subject's safety or successful participation in the study.
2. Have evidence of structural abnormalities such as major stroke or mass on MRI that is likely to interfere with analysis of the PET/CT scan.
3. Inability to tolerate or contraindication to imaging procedures in the opinion of an investigator or treating physician.
4. Have a history of significant ongoing alcohol or substance abuse based on self- report.
5. Female participants of child-bearing age will not be able to participate in this study, determined by self-report.

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Alzheimer'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.