Amyloid PET Imaging in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (NCT07099053) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Amyloid PET Imaging in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging
United States400 participantsStarted 2026-07-01
Plain-language summary
Background:
Some people experience cognitive decline as they age. That is, they lose memory, problem-solving, and other mental abilities. Amyloids are groups of proteins that develop in the brain and increase in number as people age. Researchers want to use imaging scans to track amyloids in people s brains over time. Their goal is to find out if any changes are related to cognitive decline or other medical issues.
Objective:
To learn how amyloids may affect brain structure and function as people age.
Eligibility:
People aged 55 years and older who are enrolled in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging.
Design:
Participants will have imaging scans and other tests every 1 to 4 years, depending on their age. Those 80 and older will be scanned yearly. These scans will be done during regular BLSA visits.
The scans will be positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET CT). Participants will be given fluid through a tube inserted into a vein in their arm. The fluid is a tracer that will cause the amyloids to light up in the images. Then they will lie on a bed with their head inside a PET CT scanner. They will lie still for about 30 minutes.
Participants will have tests to assess their memory and other mental skills. They will answer questions about their mood and daily life. These tests will take about 40 minutes to complete; they may be done in person or by phone.
Participants will give a contact number for someone who can answer questions about the participant s daily routine. These questions may be answered in person or by phone.
Participants will be in this study for 5 years.
Who can participate
Age range
55 Years – 110 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
* INCLUSION/EXCLUSION CRITERIA:
* Participants are men and women 55 years and older drawn from the BLSA sample and thus, represent the gender/ethnic characteristics of this study group. Enrollment is defined as the initial imaging session of the planned longitudinal study.
* Inclusion criteria: BLSA participants who do not meet exclusion criteria and have had or agreed to have an MRI under the BLSA study.
* Participants who lack capacity to consent will not be enrolled in the study. If the participant loses capacity to consent over the course of follow-up they will be removed them from the study. Competency to consent is assessed as part of the BLSA visit and we will not include people who are not competent to provide consent.
EXCLUSION CRITERIA:
* Preexisting central nervous system diseases
* Weight over 300 lbs.
* Active metastatic cancer (except basal cell cancer)
* Implanted electronic hearing devices
* Breast Cancer with radiation treatment
* Lymphoma
* Pacemaker
* Brain tumor
* Shrapnel
* Schizophrenia
* Bipolar disorder
* Epilepsy
* Language barrier that makes it difficult to understand participant.
* Aneurisms greater than 3mm
* Aneurysm clips
* Parkinson s disease/PD medications
* Huntington s disease
* Severe Endocrinopathy- treated thyroid conditions ok; treated, controlled diabetes ok. (exclude HbA1c over 8 which is poorly controlled diabetes)
* Diagnosis of dementia or mild cognitive impairment
* Younger than 55 years of age
* Pregnancy
* Ineligible for MRI
* H…
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Since this study is focused on amyloid accumulation in people who are aging — not necessarily people with a diagnosis — would my current health situation make me a good or poor candidate to discuss participation with my care team?
2This trial uses amyloid PET imaging, which involves a radioactive tracer and a brain scan — what would that process actually involve for me, and are there any risks I should know about before considering it?
3Since this is listed as 'Phase NA,' meaning it's an observational or imaging study rather than a treatment trial, what would I actually gain from participating — would I receive any results about my own amyloid levels, or is the data used only for research?
4This is part of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, which sounds like a long-term commitment — how many visits or scans would likely be required, and how might that fit into my life over time?
5If my PET scan showed concerning levels of amyloid accumulation, would the study team share that information with me and my doctor, and would that change any treatment or monitoring options available to me?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.