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NCT Number: NCT06179680

White Matter Hyperintensities in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer's Disease

This study focuses on assessing and measuring white matter hyperintensities in individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) or Alzheimer's disease.

Objective:

The primary objective of the study is to quantify the extent and distribution of white matter hyperintensities in the brains of individuals diagnosed with amnestic mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. White matter hyperintensities are areas of increased signal intensity observed on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, often associated with various cognitive disorders.

Importance:

Understanding the presence and severity of white matter hyperintensities in individuals with aMCI or Alzheimer's disease is crucial for several reasons. These abnormalities may serve as potential biomarkers, aiding in the early diagnosis and prognosis of cognitive disorders. Additionally, quantifying white matter hyperintensities could contribute to a better comprehension of the underlying neuropathological processes associated with these conditions.

Methods:

The study employs advanced imaging techniques, likely including MRI, to capture and analyze white matter hyperintensities in the brains of participants with amnestic mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. The quantification process involves precise measurement and mapping of these hyperintense regions.

Participants:

The study involves individuals diagnosed with amnestic mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease. Participants will undergo neurological assessments and imaging procedures to facilitate the accurate measurement of white matter hyperintensities.

Expected outcomes:

Researchers anticipate that the quantification of white matter hyperintensities will provide valuable insights into the progression of cognitive disorders. The results may contribute to the development of more targeted and effective diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusion:

This study represents a significant step toward enhancing our understanding of the neuropathological changes associated with amnestic mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. By focusing on the quantification of white matter hyperintensities, researchers aim to uncover potential markers for early detection and monitoring of these cognitive disorders.

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Key information

Age range

65 year and older

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Observational

Primary location

IRCCS Policlinico San Donato

San Donato Milanese, Milano, 20097, Italy

Location status: Recruiting

Location contact

Francesco Sardanelli

CONTACT

[email protected]

0252774468

Francesco Sardanelli, MD

PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Participants diagnosed with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI) or Alzheimer's Disease (AD) based on clinical assessments.
  • Individuals undergoing brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the IRCCS Policlinico San Donato as part of routine diagnostic procedures.
  • Age-matched and gender-matched healthy control subjects for comparison.

Exclusion criteria

  • Individuals with cognitive impairment other than amnestic MCI or AD.
  • History of significant neurological disorders (other than MCI or AD) that may impact the study outcomes.
  • Presence of contraindications for undergoing MRI procedures.
  • Any serious medical or psychiatric condition that, in the judgment of the researchers, may interfere with the study participation or compromise the validity of the results.
  • Known history of alcohol or substance abuse that may affect cognitive function.
  • Inability or unwillingness to provide informed consent.

Treatment and study plan

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Diagnostic Test

MRI Protocol: Uses advanced MRI sequences to examine brain structures and detect white matter issues.

WMH Assessment: Evaluates white matter health using various methods, including manual and automated tools.

Neuropsychological Testing: Subjects undergo comprehensive cognitive testing administered by IRCCS Policlinico San Donato's Clinical Psychology Service.

Follow-up: Patients are monitored for cognitive changes semiannually, with additional assessments for those showing signs of progression. After two years, all patients undergo examination and tests to assess their condition.

Primary outcomes

  1. White Matter Hyperintensity burden

    Time frame: 24 months

    The primary objective is to study the difference in terms of White Matter Hyperintensity (WMH) burden normalized for intracranial volume (primary outcome) between patients with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and control subjects. This forms the basis for calculating the sample size for prospective recruitment.

Secondary outcomes

  1. Spatial distribution pattern

    Time frame: 24 months

    Evaluate the potential relationship between the extent of WMH burden, both total and specifically their spatial distribution pattern, and the risk of progression to AD dementia in patients with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI).

  2. TRACE4AD classifier

    Time frame: 24 months

    Assess whether the WMH burden, in conjunction with voxel-based and volumetric analysis of gray matter and neuropsychological test results, can contribute to predicting the progression of aMCI to AD, as defined by the TRACE4AD classifier.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

IRCCS Policlinico S. Donato

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Quantification of White Matter Hyperintensities in Subjects With Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer's Disease

Important dates

Study start
2022
Primary completion
2026
Study completion
2026
First posted
Dec 22, 2023
Registry last updated
Jul 9, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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