A new kind of MRI aims to watch brain connections change in seconds
NCT ID NCT01686516
First seen Jul 22, 2026 · Last updated Jul 23, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether a type of diffusion MRI can detect rapid, activity-driven changes in brain connections — called synaptic plasticity — during visual stimulation. Researchers will scan healthy adults aged 20–30 and 60–80 to compare how the aging brain responds. If successful, the method could offer a new way to study brain health without using radioactive tracers.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If diffusion MRI can reliably track synaptic plasticity, it could become a new tool for studying brain aging and early signs of decline.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage methodological study in healthy volunteers. The technique may not prove sensitive or specific enough for clinical use.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for BRAIN AGING are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Inserm U 825
Toulouse, France, 31059, France
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.