A PIONEERING dementia study in Oxford is testing new brain scans that are revealing early changes that are a sign of Alzheimer’s disease.

These markers for the disease will be used to test whether experimental treatments can delay, or even prevent, the progression of the disease.

The New Therapeutics in Alzheimer’s Disease study is using neuroimaging scanners to measure subtle changes in the working of brain cells.

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The study scanned 50 patients with mild memory problems and a build-up of amyloid proteins that are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, as well as 15 healthy people.

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The interim findings from the study show a significant difference of brain cell activity in people with very early Alzheimer’s disease.

Prof James Rowe, Chief Investigator and Dementias Platform UK lead researcher, said: “It looks promising that the MEG (magnetoencephalography) measurement of brain activity may be sensitive enough to detect early Alzheimer’s disease.”

NTAD is now recruiting volunteers with the disease or with memory problems.

Sally Taylor, a retired teacher and participant on the NTAD study said: "When I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease I knew that I needed to accommodate and not fight the disease.

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"For me that has meant offering something back and contributing to Alzheimer’s research.

"With Tony my husband helping, I have found taking part an incredibly positive experience. Along with being professional, the research team have been very personable and considerate.

"They have been clear about what is involved and carefully explained what I might expect, and I have never felt pushed or forced to participate at any stage.”

To register your interest in taking part, visit dementiasplatform.uk/NTAD