Cognitive Decline Study Begins Using Neuroimaging Technology

Kernel has initiated an observational study focused on characterizing early cognitive decline. The first patients have been measured at the Neurology Center of Southern California (a Profound Research site), one of Kernel’s partners in this study.

By leveraging the advanced capabilities of the Flow2 neuroimaging technology, this study aims to detect Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and measure the severity of MCI symptoms by analyzing Flow2 neurophysiological data obtained during a battery of cognitive tasks and resting state measures. Study cohorts consist of patients older than 55 diagnosed with MCI and age-matched healthy controls, and are open to enrollment to participants in Southern California.
 
Worldwide, there are more than 55 million people living with dementia. As the global population ages, that number is expected to roughly double every 20 years. With disease modifying treatments starting to emerge for Alzheimer’s Disease, early detection and monitoring of MCI will become critical for early and effective interventions. By utilizing the portable and easy-to-use Flow2 technology, Kernel is paving the way for the development of brain-based biomarkers that can transform screening for diseases related to cognitive function.
 
“For the first time, there is a tool available that provides a robust measure of cognition and brain health. Through this observational study, we are demonstrating that Kernel Flow can be easily used in primary care settings to monitor brain function,” Kernel CEO Ryan Field said. “By identifying biomarkers of the condition at its source—the brain—we aspire to enable earlier detection and better interventions for all forms of dementia. In the future, we plan to combine our measurement with other biomarkers to provide a comprehensive picture of brain function. Just like cardiac disease is monitored, screened, and diagnosed with a battery of low-cost tests, we expect that identifying diseases of the brain will become similarly data-driven.”
 
The collaborative efforts of Kernel, the Neurology Center of Southern California, and the participating research sites demonstrate a shared commitment to driving innovation in cognitive health research and enhancing patient care.
 
“As a neurologist, I’ve seen the pressing need for better tools to detect cognitive decline early,” stated Dr. Sahagian, CEO of the Neurology Center of Southern California. “Flow2 neuroimaging technology holds great promise in providing valuable insights into brain health, enabling timely interventions and improved patient outcomes.”
 
By combining expertise, resources, and state-of-the-art technology, these organizations aim to accelerate the development of personalized and effective interventions for cognitive decline.
 
Kernel is an innovator in non-invasive neuroimaging technology. By delivering research-grade data quality with Flow2 and building robust brain-based biomarkers, Kernel is at the forefront of enabling precision neuromedicine to transform mental and brain health.
 
The Neurology Center of Southern California is a Profound Research network site.