New PET scan tracks brain cell loss in Alzheimer's

NCT ID NCT04871074

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Wisconsin, Madison Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This completed Phase 2 study tested whether a special PET scan using a tracer called UCB-J can measure synaptic density—the connections between brain cells—in people with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers scanned 100 participants across different stages, from healthy to dementia, to see if this method could predict cognitive decline better than standard MRI or spinal fluid tests. The goal was to improve early detection and understanding of Alzheimer's progression.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: UCB-J (a radioactive tracer for PET imaging)
What this could lead to: If successful, this imaging technique could help doctors detect Alzheimer's earlier and monitor how the disease progresses by measuring brain cell connections.
What could go wrong: This is an observational imaging study, not a treatment trial. The results may not lead to immediate clinical changes, and the technique needs further validation in larger, more diverse groups.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Wisconsin

Madison, Wisconsin, 53792, United States

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