Radioactive tracer reveals tau tangles in Alzheimer's brains
NCT ID NCT02414178
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests a new radioactive compound called F 18 T807 that lights up tau tangles in the brain during a PET scan. Researchers want to see if the amount of tau relates to memory and thinking problems in people with a rare, inherited form of Alzheimer's disease. About 130 adults with or without mild dementia will get one injection and a brain scan. The goal is to better understand how tau buildup affects the mind, not to treat the disease.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- F 18 T807 (a radioactive tracer for PET scans)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could help doctors detect Alzheimer's earlier and track disease progression using brain scans.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early imaging study, not a treatment trial. The tracer is not FDA-approved, and it may not reliably predict cognitive decline.
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 ALZHEIMER DISEASE are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Washington University School of Medicine
St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can a simple questionnaire empower dementia caregivers after hospital stays?
- Could your heart hold the key to Alzheimer's prevention?
- Can a nudge in your chart unlock Life-Saving genetic clues?
- Can a Voice-Based app map healthy brain aging across 80 years?
- Can MRI reveal the Brain's response to deep brain stimulation?
- Can brain scans and gut bacteria reveal Alzheimer's secrets?