Tau-PET imaging

This study will use a highly-advanced imaging technique – simultaneous MR-PET scanning – to allow scientists to model in detail the early stages of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. By also using data from existing health study participants they'll be able to draw parallels with other changes that occur early on.

Using the scanners in the DPUK Imaging Network, researchers will carry out additional PET scanning of 100 people who have already had PET scans as part of their involvement in two existing health study cohorts – EPAD and PREVENT. The extra information they collect on the 'tau' protein, when combined with existing data from these participants, will create a very rich dataset for modelling the early stages of Alzheimer's disease and subsequent dementia. The use of existing cohort participants will allow the scientists to draw parallels with other biological changes.

The technology that the scientists are using will provide a significantly more detailed picture of the disease development than has been possible before.