RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Tanycytes in Alzheimer's Disease and Frontotemporal Dementia

This research is investigating how certain brain cells, called tanycytes, play a role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). These diseases often involve changes in how the body handles hormones and metabolism, where the brain controls things like appetite and energy use. Tanycytes are special cells that help control what gets into a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which is key for these functions. The study aims to find out if the way tanycytes transport a hormone called leptin – which helps regulate appetite – is affected early on in people with AD and FTD. By understanding this, scientists hope to learn more about how these devastating conditions develop.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University Hospital, Lille

Enrolment target

102

Start

06 Sep 2022

Estimated completion

01 Oct 2026

Alzheimer Disease Frontotemporal Dementia

What is this study about?

This study is looking into two types of brain conditions: Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Both conditions can affect how a person's body uses energy and hormones. For instance, in FTD, people sometimes experience significant changes in their eating habits, which can be linked to changes in hormones like leptin.

The brain has a special area called the hypothalamus, which is like the body's control centre for metabolism and hormones. This area needs to be able to sense signals from the rest of the body. There are unique cells in the brain, called tanycytes, that act a bit like gatekeepers. They control what substances, including hormones like leptin, can get into the hypothalamus. Our previous research has shown that tanycytes are important for helping leptin reach the hypothalamus.

In this study, researchers want to see if the way these tanycyte cells handle leptin is different in people with Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia, especially in the early stages of these diseases. They believe that problems with how these cells transport leptin could be an important part of how these conditions develop. By understanding this better, we hope to find new ways to understand and potentially help people living with these conditions.

Key takeaways

This study is researching Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia.
It focuses on how brain cells called tanycytes handle a hormone called leptin.
Participation involves a lumbar puncture and blood samples.
A study partner is required for those with dementia.
The study aims to improve our understanding of these diseases.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you would need to be between 40 and 85 years old. The study is open to everyone, regardless of gender.

If you have Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal dementia, you might be eligible if you have a formal diagnosis and meet specific memory and thinking test scores. You would also need a 'study partner' – someone who can come with you to appointments, help with some questionnaires, and drive you home after certain procedures. If driving is an issue, travel costs can be covered.

There's also a group for people who don't have memory problems, to compare findings. If you are in good health and don't have cognitive complaints or significant memory issues, you could be considered for this group. Everyone participating must be able to understand and agree to the study requirements.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 40 and 85 years old?
Are you able to have a lumbar puncture?
If you have Alzheimer's or FTD, do you have a study partner who can assist?
If you don't have memory problems, do you feel cognitively well?
Are you able to understand and agree to the study requirements?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would need to have certain medical procedures. These include a lumbar puncture, which is a common procedure where a small amount of fluid is taken from your spine. You would also need to provide a blood sample. The study doesn't specify how many visits are needed or the total length of the study, nor does it involve taking any new medications. There's no mention of follow-up care within the study description.

Potential risks and benefits

Potential benefits of taking part could include helping researchers better understand Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia, which may lead to improved ways to diagnose or treat these conditions in the future. Potential risks are generally associated with the procedures involved, such as the lumbar puncture, which can sometimes cause headaches or discomfort. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Memory Resources and Research Center Lille
Verified postcode
Lille, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a lumbar puncture?

A lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap, is a procedure where a doctor carefully takes a small amount of fluid from your lower back, near your spine. It's done to get samples for testing.

What is leptin?

Leptin is a hormone in your body that helps control your appetite and how your body stores fat. It's often called the 'satiety hormone' because it signals to your brain when you've had enough to eat.

What are tanycytes?

Tanycytes are special cells in a certain part of your brain that act like gatekeepers. They control what substances, including important hormones, can get into the part of your brain that manages metabolism and hormones.

Why is a study partner needed?

A study partner is needed to help complete some questionnaires about you and to ensure you have a safe ride home after the lumbar puncture procedure, as a precaution.

Will I receive any personal results from the study?

The study information provided does not specify whether individual participants will receive their test results. You would need to ask the research team about this.

How to find out more

Thibaud LEBOUVIER, MD,PhD

thibaud.lebouvier@chru-lille.fr 0320445962 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.