Investigating the Role of Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping and Oxygen Extraction Fraction in Alzheimer's Disease

What is this Study about?

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) and Oxygen Extraction Fraction (OEF) as innovative, non-invasive neuroimaging biomarkers for Alzheimer's Disease (AD) diagnosis and progression. By analyzing a comprehensive cohort from McGill University's TRIAD, the research seeks to differentiate between varying cognitive statuses, from AD and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to Cognitively Unimpaired (CU) populations. Utilizing advanced machine-learning techniques, we aim to predict the presence of key pathological-proteins, amyloid and tau. The insights garnered will potentially revolutionize AD diagnostics, making them more accessible and less invasive, and will be pivotal in shaping early interventions and treatment-strategies.

What Will Happen in This Study?

Participants will be involved in a cutting-edge study aiming to advance Alzheimer's Disease (AD) diagnostic techniques. They will undergo non-invasive advanced neuroimaging sessions using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) technologies. These sessions will gather crucial data on the potential biomarkers of AD, offering insights into its progression. Participants' imaging data will also contribute to the development of machine learning models for predicting AD pathology. Each neuroimaging session will last approximately 1-1.5 hours, and participants might be invited for follow-up sessions or brief interviews over the course of 36 months to track changes or gather additional data.

Who is Eligible to Participate in this Study?

Are a member of the TRIAD cohort at McGill University, falling within one of the following categories: young control, cognitively unimpaired, mild cognitive impairment, or Alzheimer's Disease.

Are willing and able to undergo advanced neuroimaging techniques including MRI and PET without contraindications.

Have not had any significant neurological conditions (other than AD for the AD group) that might interfere with the results of the study.

Have no metal implants, devices, or other conditions that may contraindicate or distort MRI imaging.

Are not currently participating in other clinical trials or studies that involve interventions which might interfere with the results of this study.

Are able and willing to provide informed consent for participation in the study or have a legally authorized representative who can do so.

Do not have a history of substance abuse or other conditions that might confound the imaging and cognitive data.

Have not undergone any significant head trauma or surgery in the past 6 months.

Are not pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the duration of the study.

Are willing to comply with all study-related procedures, imaging sessions, and follow-up evaluations.

Ability to speak English and French

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