Imaging Innovations for Enhanced Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Medical imaging remains an essential field in neurodegenerative disease research, providing critical insights into the structural and functional abnormalities associated with disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. The evolution of imaging technologies has long been central to driving early diagnosis, refining disease classification, and enabling rigorous monitoring of progression or response to therapy. Despite these advances, current imaging techniques often grapple with limitations in sensitivity, contrast, specificity, and the capacity to distinguish Alzheimer’s pathology from other neurodegenerative conditions. There is increasing interest in integrating innovative imaging agents, hybrid modalities, and nanotechnology-based approaches to overcome these challenges. Recent explorations into theranostic agents and multi-functional nanomaterials have set the stage for more precise, non-invasive visualization of disease processes, yet substantial gaps remain regarding optimal materials, delivery systems, and clinical translation.This Research Topic aims to explore and push the boundaries of imaging methodologies poised to transform Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis and management. The primary objective is to identify and describe new materials, agents, and imaging protocols that promise heightened contrast and specificity for detecting early and subtle brain changes. Emphasis is placed on reviewing the development and preclinical evaluation of innovative agents—such as gold nanoparticles and bisphosphonate-functionalized probes—as well as on hybrid contrast models that combine diagnostic with therapeutic potentials (theranostics). The collection aspires to inspire interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative innovation that propel imaging from bench to bedside, fostering earlier diagnosis and more effective patient monitoring.The range of this Research Topic encompasses both foundational and applied research into next-generation imaging for Alzheimer’s disease, with an explicit focus on materials science, chemistry, and clinical translation. We welcome contributions addressing, but not limited to, the following key themes:• Development and characterization of novel imaging agents (e.g., gold nanoparticles, bisphosphonate-functionalized probes)• Theranostic approaches and hybrid imaging models• Molecular and functional imaging strategies for early Alzheimer’s detection• Comparative effectiveness of advanced imaging protocols• Translational challenges and opportunities for clinical adoptionWe encourage a wide range of submissions, including original research, methods papers, brief research reports, data reports, systematic reviews, mini reviews and perspectives. Topic editors: Simone Mastrogiacomo, Francesco La Rosa, Anna Marin Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79711/imaging-innovations-for-enhanced-alzheimers-diagnosis