NCT06336382 · Jeremy Koppel
Tau Biomarkers in Late-onset Psychosis (LOP)
What this study is about
Hallucinations or delusions that occur for the first time in older people with no acute medical problems or mood symptoms may be related to impending dementia. This study aims to confirm this hypothesis using novel blood biomarkers and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging tracers, as well as non-invasive testing.
View original scientific description
Hallucinations or delusions that occur for the first time in older people with no acute medical problems or mood symptoms may be related to impending dementia. This study aims to confirm this hypothesis using novel blood biomarkers and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging tracers, as well as non-invasive testing.
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
- Male or female, aged 65-85 years.
- Diagnosis of late-onset non-affective primary psychotic disorder consistent with either very late-onset schizophrenia-like psychosis (VLOSP, International Late-Onset Schizophrenia Group consensus criteria, Howard et al., 2000) or delusional disorder (DSM-5 criteria)
- Caregiver available to provide collateral history and participation in informant-based ratings (NPI,CDR)
- Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) score of 0 or 0.5.
- Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≥ 24 and at the screening visit.
- Normal memory function (to rule-out mild cognitive impairment, MCI) documented by scoring within 1.5 SD range in education adjusted norms of the Logical Memory II subscale
- Ability to hear 500, 1000 and 1500 Hz bilaterally on a hearing evaluation (hearing aids permitted).
Exclusion criteria
- Participants with affective and psychotic disorders including bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, active major depression; insulin dependent type 2 diabetes; a history of CVD; a history of epilepsy; a history of TBI with greater than 15 minutes of loss of consciousness; a movement disorder including Parkinson's disease; stroke; autoimmune disease affecting the CNS; substance abuse disorder; or active delirium/encephalopathy.
- Evidence of a clinically relevant neurological disorder
- Modified Hachinski ischemia score of more than 4.
- History of alcoholism or drug dependency/abuse within the last 5 years before screening.
- Presence of metal implants such as pacemakers, ear implants, internal bullet fragments or shrapnel.
- Inability to lie flat for 1 hour approximately.
- Hearing impairment as evidenced by the inability to hear 500, 1000 and 1500 Hz bilaterally on a hearing evaluation. Subjects with hearing aids will be allowed to participate if they meet minimum hearing requirements.
Where
- Manhasset, New York
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 Sep 29, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations