The Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network Observational (DIAN Obs) study enables researchers around the world to monitor and identify changes in individuals who carry one of the gene mutations (Presenilin1, Presenilin2 or APP) known to cause dominantly inherited Alzheimer’s disease (DIAD).
DIAN Obs aims to define the natural history of AD and establish reliable biomarkers that track the disease.
What is an observational study?
An observational study fosters scientific discovery through observing the course of a disease or condition in participants without introducing any interventions. This type of study occurs in a non-controlled setting; participants are not assigned specific treatments but are simply followed over time. The goal is to understand the natural progression of a disease, identify risk factors, and inform future research, providing valuable insights into disease behavior.
Our goal
Research suggests that brain changes may occur years before actual Alzheimer’s symptoms are detected. DIAN Obs evaluates participants at entry and longitudinally thereafter with standardized clinical and cognitive testing, brain imaging, and biological fluid collection (blood, cerebrospinal fluid) with the goal of determining the sequence of changes in pre-symptomatic gene carriers who are destined to develop AD. Another goal is to establish a research database and tissue repository to support research by other investigators around the world. Knowledge gained from the Observational Study may lead to therapeutic options to detect and treat DIAD at its earliest stages — or prevent it all together.
Description & Sample Characteristics
Learn more about the specific aims and study criteria.
How & Why to Participate
Now enrolling biological adult children of a parent with a mutated gene known to cause DIAD.
Procedures
Enrolled individuals will visit a study site in person and participate in these procedures.