Brain scan could spot early dementia clues

NCT ID NCT03372317

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

Summary

This study uses a special PET scan to detect tau protein buildup in the brains of healthy older adults and those with mild cognitive impairment. Researchers will compare scan results with memory tests and brain activity patterns to understand how tau affects thinking. The goal is to learn more about early signs of dementia, not to test a treatment.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

18F-MK-6240 (a radioactive tracer for PET scans)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help identify early signs of dementia and improve understanding of how tau buildup affects memory and thinking.

What could go wrong

This is an observational imaging study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead directly to new therapies, and results may not apply to all populations.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction Pick disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Columbia University Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    New York, New York, 10032, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact