Brain camera could spot which cells are causing Alzheimer's inflammation

NCT ID NCT05582200

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: The Methodist Hospital Research Institute Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study uses special PET scans to look at two types of brain cells involved in inflammation in Alzheimer's disease. Researchers will give participants two different tracers to see microglia and astrocytes separately. The goal is to develop a method that can tell these cells apart, which could help monitor new treatments for brain inflammation. The study involves 71 people with Alzheimer's and healthy volunteers.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: PET tracers: 11C-ER176 and 18F-SMBT1
What this could lead to: If successful, this method could help doctors see which brain cells are inflamed in Alzheimer's, making it easier to monitor new anti-inflammatory treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an early imaging study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead to direct patient benefits, and the method needs further validation before routine use.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALZHEIMER DISEASE HEALTHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Houston Methodist Research Institute
RECRUITING

Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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