Biological and lifestyle factors linked to Alzheimer's risk in Black women
Understanding Biological and Lifestyle Contributions to Alzheimer's Disease Pathology and Clinical Profiles in Black Women: Defining Prevention Targets in High Risk Groups
This project looks at how inflammation, insulin resistance, and physical activity relate to brain tau changes and memory in older Black women at risk for Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11463178 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be part of research that measures blood markers of inflammation and insulin resistance, tracks physical activity, and tests thinking and memory over time. The team will use Alzheimer-related biomarkers (including phosphorylated tau), cognitive tests, and activity monitoring to see how these factors interact. The focus is specifically on older Black women who face higher rates of Alzheimer's to understand why their disease may progress faster. The goal is to identify modifiable targets that could help delay or prevent cognitive decline.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are Black women who are middle-aged or older and concerned about Alzheimer's risk, especially those with signs of inflammation, insulin resistance, or low physical activity.
Not a fit: People who are men, non-Black, or who already have advanced Alzheimer's dementia are unlikely to benefit directly from participation in this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could point to lifestyle or biological targets to help prevent or slow Alzheimer's disease in Black women.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies show links between inflammation, activity, and brain health and suggest lifestyle changes can help, but focusing on tau biomarkers in Black women is a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Banks, Sarah — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Banks, Sarah
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.