Research Center: Emory University
Location: 1520 Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30322
Lead Researcher: Irene Yang, PhD, RN
IRB: This study has been reviewed and approved by the Emory University Institutional Review Board

Could oral health reveal risks for Alzheimer’s disease? Emory University researchers are studying the link between gum health, the oral microbiome, and Alzheimer’s risk in middle-aged to older adults.

The goal is to identify pathways that could enable early screening and prevention. This study could help individuals at risk receive care sooner and improve overall health outcomes.

Interested? See if you qualify for this study!

• Participants will be compensated up to $375 for participating in this study. Compensation will only be provided to eligible participants who complete the study.
• Participants will provide valuable insights into the link between gum disease, the oral microbiome, and Alzheimer’s risk factors.
• Participants will be helping to advance medical research.

• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time.
• Any information that you provide will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.
• Qualified health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

• Men and women aged 45 – 85 who have at least 16 natural teeth
• Must not have a history of endocarditis, previous valve replacement or heart disease
• Must not have current oral cancers or systemic inflammatory conditions (eg. Rheumatoid arthritis, IBD, SLE)
• Must be able to attend 3 study visits at the research site over 1 year

The study team will explain the research in its entirety but some details are:

• Participants will be asked to answer questionnaires.
• Participants will be asked to provide blood collected by a trained phlebotomist and cerebrospinal fluid through a lumbar puncture collected by a licensed neurologist.
• Participants will be asked to have a dentist examine their gum health and collect oral specimens, such as saliva and plaque.

Emory University
Emory University puts curiosity to good use, constantly seeking the next idea that can make a difference. With new challenges always emerging, the institution remains committed to addressing them through innovative solutions developed by some of the best and brightest minds, all with the goal of improving lives around the world.