The HEAD Study
Head-to-Head Harmonization of Tau Tracers in Alzheimer's Disease
Researchers at Brown University are using PET scanning to examine buildup of proteins in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Fast Facts
Diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer's Disease
50-90 Years Old
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Providence, RI
Study Background
Help researchers learn more about the usefulness of tau protein measurements.
The HEAD study, a multi-site research project, examines buildup of proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease using positron emission tomography (PET).
If you are between 50-90 years old and have been diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer’s disease, you may qualify to participate in this compensated study. You must be willing to undergo cognitive testing, blood draws, MRI scans, and PET scans over an 18-month period.
Eventually, the findings of this study might be useful in future research on MCI, Alzheimer’s disease, and other types of dementia.
Study Background
Help researchers learn more about the usefulness of tau protein measurements.
The HEAD study, a multi-site research project, examines buildup of proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease using positron emission tomography (PET).
If you are between 50-90 years old and have been diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer’s disease, you may qualify to participate in this compensated study. You must be willing to undergo cognitive testing, blood draws, MRI scans, and PET scans over an 18-month period.
Eventually, the findings of this study might be useful in future research on MCI, Alzheimer’s disease, and other types of dementia.
Additional Information
The purpose of this study is to compare measurements of tau proteins (a protein buildup in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease) over time, using PET scanning, in order to assess the advantages and disadvantages of their use in clinical trials and practice.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- 50-90 years old
- Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
- Willing to undergo cognitive testing, blood draws, MRI scans, and PET scans
- Have someone in mind (e.g., family member, friend, caregiver) who can serve as an informant and assess your cognitive functioning
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
The study will take up to 24 hours of your time over an 18-month period.
First, you will be asked to do a 30-minute phone interview in order to determine whether you are eligible to participate in this research study.
If you are determined to be eligible and you agree to participate, you will be scheduled to visit the laboratory at Brown University and/or Butler Hospital for clinical assessments and neuropsychological testing. You will also be scheduled for an appointment for an MRI scan at the MRI Research Facility at Brown University. In addition, you will be scheduled for three separate appointments for three PET scans at Rhode Island Hospital. A blood draw will be scheduled in one of these visits.
You will repeat all tests at follow-up appointments approximately 18 months after your baseline visit.
Participants may receive up to $440 for their time and travel expenses.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
