Study of Brain Inflammation and Alzheimers Biomarkers in Adults Aged 40 to 60 with Different Body Weights and Metabolic Health

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how high body fat in middle-aged adults, shown by overweight or obesity, might increase the risk of Alzheimers disease. The study focuses on adults aged 40 to 60 who are cognitively normal. Participants will be grouped based on metabolic health using tests like oral glucose tolerance, fasting insulin, glucose, and hemoglobin A1c, to classify them as metabolically abnormal overweight or obese MAOO, metabolically normal overweight or obese MNOO, or metabolically normal lean participants MNLP. The study aims to understand differences in brain changes related to Alzheimers biomarkers, including amyloid, tau, and neurodegeneration. Participants will undergo metabolic testing and advanced brain imaging techniques. Neurodegeneration will be assessed using brain MRI to measure regional brain volume loss. Researchers will also use a specialized imaging method called diffusion basis spectrum imaging DBSI to evaluate neuroinflammation in the brain. Additional brain scans include PET scans using specific radioactive tracers to detect amyloid and tau deposits. The study groups are based on body mass index, body circumference, and metabolic markers to observe how these factors relate to Alzheimers changes. During the study, participants will complete metabolic tests, brain MRIs, and PET scans. The research team will measure brain atrophy, neuroinflammation, and amyloid and tau buildup to compare among the different metabolic groups. Participants must be able to undergo these imaging procedures and complete cognitive assessments like the MMSE or Clinical Dementia Rating Scale. The total time for outcome measurements is about 10 hours. The study will continue through 2027, monitoring participants to gain insights into the links between midlife obesity, metabolism, and Alzheimers disease biomarkers.

Alzheimer"s Imaging Biomarkers in Obesity