NCT05245903 · Mclean Hospital
Passive Sensor Identification of Digital Biomarkers to Assess Effects of Orally Administered Nicotinamide Riboside
(Emerald-NRAD)
What this study is about
This project's main goal is to use state-of-the-art passive sensing techniques to identify digital biomarkers that relate to bioenergetic changes in the brain due to nicotinamide riboside supplementation in those with mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer's dementia.
View original scientific description
This project's main goal is to use state-of-the-art passive sensing techniques to identify digital biomarkers that relate to bioenergetic changes in the brain due to nicotinamide riboside supplementation in those with mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer's dementia.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Ability of the participant and/or his/her legally authorized representative to understand the purpose and risks of the study, to provide signed and dated informed consent, and to authorize the use of confidential health information.
- Ability to speak and read fluently in English
- 18-89 years old (inclusive)
- Normal or corrected to normal hearing and vision
- Meet clinical diagnostic criteria for MCI or Mild AD, according to the criteria outlined above
- Study partner available for duration of trial participation
- At least one copy of the APOE ε4 allele
- An aggregate risk score \> 4 according to the risk analysis method developed by Sabbagh et al. (2017)
- For individuals who are taking niacin (or a vitamin supplement with niacin) of \>200mg, the completion of a two-week wash-out period
Exclusion criteria
- Current serious or unstable medical or neurological condition that could affect cognitive functioning, as determined by study clinician
- Clinically unstable mood or anxiety disorder within 6 months prior to screening, as determined by study clinician
- Lifetime history of psychotic disorder (i.e. Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder), as determined by study clinician
- Diagnosis of a mitochondrial disorder
- Any MRI safety contraindications
- History of drug hypersensitivity or intolerance to NR
- Transient ischemic attack or stroke within 1 year prior to screening
- History of alcohol or substance abuse within prior year, as determined by study clinician and urine toxicology screen
- History of head injury rated as moderate or worse, per DSM-5 criteria
- History of seizure within prior 10 years
- Current use of medication with known adverse effects on cognition (benzodiazepines, barbiturates, opiate analgesics, first generation antipsychotic medication, anticholinergics, sedating antihistamines, tricyclic anti-depressants)
- Change in dose of any psychiatric medications within 4 weeks of screening visit
- Prior use of L-DOPA, any anti-Parkinsonian medication, or prior treatment with anti-amyloid immunotherapy
- Current use of putative mitochondrial enhancers or antioxidants (e.g. carnitine, creatine, Co-Q10, N-acetyl cysteine, pramipexole)
- Initiation of treatment or change in dosing of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) and memantine within 4 weeks of screening
- Prior use of prescription narcotics 4 weeks before screening
- Female subjects who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- The current use of niacin (or a vitamin supplement with niacin) \>200mg within the last two weeks prior to study visit
Where
- Belmont, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 6, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations