A Nationwide Chinese Study on Familial Alzheimers Disease Tracking Genetics, Biomarkers, and Disease Progression

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are establishing and continuously improving a nationwide research network focused on Familial Alzheimers Disease FAD in China. This observational study collects detailed information on family demographics, genetics, neuropsychology, neuroimaging, and biomarkers to better understand FADs genetic features, disease progression, and diagnosis and treatment status in the Chinese population. The study aims to clarify epidemiological and clinical characteristics of FAD, discover early diagnostic biomarkers, and develop a genetic counseling model. The study includes cohorts with known mutations in PSEN1, PSEN2, and APP genes, including both mutation carriers and noncarriers, presymptomatic and symptomatic individuals, as well as normal cognitive control participants. It involves comprehensive epidemiological surveys across different nationalities and regions in China, regular collection and follow-up of biological samples like blood, urine, and saliva, and data including neuropsychology and imaging. The project uses advanced imaging methods such as structural MRI and PET scans to monitor brain changes and biomarkers at different stages of Alzheimers progression. Participants will undergo regular assessments including neuropsychological tests, brain imaging, and biomarker analysis to track disease development over time. The study measures the prevalence of gene mutations and patterns of genetic, biofluid, imaging, and cognitive markers over multiple years. It also evaluates changes in brain structure, metabolism, amyloid and tau deposition, and tests non-drug interventions. The total participation duration varies, with some measures assessed yearly for up to 10 years, supporting long-term monitoring and data collection.

The Chinese Familial Alzheimer's Network