Biomarkers: Biomarkers for target engagement (Milestone 9.C)
In Progress
Timeline Start - End
2014 - 2024Research Implementation Area
BiomarkersInitiate development of imaging and/or fluid biomarkers to demonstrate target engagement for 5 novel therapeutic targets for AD and AD-related dementias.
Success Criteria
Identification of 3 imaging and/or fluid biomarkers for which there is proof of engagement of novel therapeutic targets.
Summary of Key Accomplishments
NIA supports biomarker discovery by academic institutions and small biotech companies through targeted and non-targeted funding initiatives. Seven new imaging biomarkers (five PET ligands and two MRI-based markers) reflecting synaptic function, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation are being developed and evaluated in animal models and in humans. In addition, 28 projects have been funded that support the discovery of novel blood-based biomarkers using various genomic technologies.
The key accomplishments summary is current as of March 2022.
Accomplishments/Implementation Activities
Funding Initiatives
- PAR-15-359: Novel Approaches to Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease & Predicting Progression (R01)
- PAR-16-266: Development and Application of PET and SPECT Imaging Ligands as Biomarkers for Drug Discovery and for Pathophysiological Studies of CNS Disorders (R01)
- PAR-19-070: Research on Current Topics in Alzheimer's Disease and Its Related Dementias (R01 Clinical Trial Optional) (Reissue of PAR-15-359)
- PAR-20-037: Development and Application of PET and SPECT Imaging Ligands as Biomarkers for Drug Discovery and for Pathophysiological Studies of CNS Disorders (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
- PAR-20-038: Development and Application of PET and SPECT Imaging Ligands as Biomarkers for Drug Discovery and for Pathophysiological Studies of CNS Disorders (R01 Clinical Trial Optional)
- NOT-AG-22-032: Development of Radiotracers for Diagnosis and Clinical Studies in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and AD-Related Dementias (ADRD)
Research Programs and Resources
- Neuro-PET Radiotracer Discovery for Imaging Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3
- Longitudinal Molecular Imaging of Neuropathology and Serotonin in Mild Cognitive Impairment
- In Vivo MRI Biomarkers of Microstructural Correlates of Brain Pathology in Preclinical and Early Alzheimer’s Disease
- Assessing Brain Microstructure in AD with Advanced Diffusion MRI
- CSF Clearance in Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease
- The Longitudinal Course of Imaging Biomarkers in People at Risk of AD
- PREDICT-ADFTD: Multimodal Imaging Prediction of AD/FTD and Differential Diagnosis