Cerebellum changes in aging and cognitive decline
Official title: The cerebellum in aging and cognitive decline: longitudinal insights into function, structural networks, and neurodegeneration
Funded at Texas A&m University · NIH-11426236 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how aging affects the cerebellum and how these brain changes relate to moments of cognitive decline in people aged 65 and older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $640,059 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG102708-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11426236 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults aged 65 and older, including those with subjective cognitive concerns and at risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
✕Less likely to help
Older adults without any measurable cognitive concerns or changes may have limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project follows adults over 65 to understand how the cerebellum’s structure and its brain networks change as people age and as cognitive function shifts. It uses longitudinal observations to connect physical brain changes with everyday challenges in movement and thinking. The study aims to identify early markers and potential targets for interventions to slow or prevent progression toward mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease. Participants may contribute by undergoing brain imaging, cognitive testing, and related assessments over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could help identify early signals of cognitive decline and guide future strategies to preserve brain health in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows cerebellar changes relate to aging and cognition, with meaningful longitudinal signals in aging populations.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bernard, Jessica Ann — Texas A&m University
- Study coordinator: Bernard, Jessica Ann
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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.