Tau PET Imaging for Cognitive Impairment
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the effectiveness of a special brain imaging test, called a Tau PET scan, for individuals of different racial backgrounds with normal cognitive abilities or dementia. The aim is to determine if the scan can enhance understanding and potentially aid in diagnosing cognitive issues. African American men and women aged 30 or older, who are either cognitively normal or experiencing mild cognitive problems or dementia, are eligible to participate. Participants must remain still for 20 minutes during the scan. This trial offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could improve future brain health care. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on assessing the imaging test's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that the Tau PET scan is safe for cognitive impairment studies?
Research has shown that Tau PET scans are generally safe for people. These scans study brain changes in individuals with memory problems or dementia. Tau PET scans allow doctors to see tau proteins in the brain, which are linked to diseases like Alzheimer's.
Studies indicate that Tau PET scans effectively predict cognitive issues. No reports of serious side effects have emerged from these scans. Since this trial is in the middle phase of testing, some evidence suggests that the scans are well-tolerated.
Currently, Tau PET scans are mainly used to gain a clearer understanding of brain activity, aiding doctors in diagnosing cognitive problems more accurately. While studies focus on the effectiveness of the scans, the lack of reported negative effects suggests the procedure is safe.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Tau PET scans for cognitive impairment because these scans offer a unique way to visualize tau protein deposits in the brain, which are closely linked to conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Unlike other diagnostic methods that might rely on cognitive tests or broader imaging techniques, Tau PET scans provide a more precise look at the changes happening in the brain's structure. This can help in earlier and more accurate diagnosis, potentially leading to better-targeted treatments for individuals. By understanding where and how much tau is accumulating, doctors can gain insights that current methods might miss, paving the way for more personalized intervention strategies.
What evidence suggests that the Tau PET scan is effective for cognitive impairment?
Research has shown that tau PET scans are a promising tool for understanding memory and thinking problems, as well as dementia. In this trial, participants will undergo tau PET scans to assess their cognitive status. Previous studies found these scans best predicted which individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) might develop dementia. They strongly correlate with thinking skills, symptoms, and changes in the brain over time. Tau PET scans can diagnose and track memory and thinking decline accurately, often outperforming other methods. They excel at detecting late-stage brain changes linked to serious memory and thinking issues. Overall, tau PET scans are valuable for identifying and managing cognitive problems.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Neill R Graff-Radford, MD
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for African American adults aged 30 or older who have either normal cognitive function or dementia. They must be able to lie still for 20 minutes and not have conditions like a prolonged QT interval on an ECG, metal implants, pacemakers, or severe claustrophobia that would prevent MRI scans.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Imaging Tests
Participants undergo neuroimaging tests to gather information on tau positive scans
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after imaging tests
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Tau PET scan
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mayo Clinic
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator