Blood and brain DNA markers linking vascular health and Alzheimer's in older White and Black adults
The role of blood and brain 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in linking vascular risk factors to ADRD in older White and Black persons
This project looks at a DNA chemical tag called 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in blood and brain to understand how vascular problems like diabetes may lead to Alzheimer's in older Black and White adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11135387 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be part of research that measures a DNA chemical tag called 5hmC in blood samples and in brain tissue to map patterns across the genome. The team uses sensitive lab methods to capture and sequence 5hmC fragments from circulating cell-free DNA and from genomic DNA in tissues. They compare 5hmC patterns in people with and without vascular risk factors such as diabetes and relate those patterns to Alzheimer's-related changes. The goal is to develop 5hmC 'scores' that help explain how vascular health may contribute to dementia risk in older Black and White adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are older Black or White adults with or without vascular conditions (for example diabetes) who are willing to provide blood samples and, if applicable, brain tissue donations through an autopsy program.
Not a fit: Younger people, those without vascular risk factors, or people from other racial groups not included in the study may not directly benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to blood-based markers that identify people whose vascular health is increasing their risk of Alzheimer's and point to new prevention or treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, including work by this group, have used 5hmC patterns to distinguish Alzheimer's and diabetes, but applying blood and brain 5hmC together to explain how vascular risk drives dementia is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arvanitakis, Zoe — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Arvanitakis, Zoe
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.