Exploring how blood vessel changes affect brain aging

Understanding the role of the cerebral microvasculature in brain aging

['FUNDING_R01'] · TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA · NIH-11087668

This study is looking at how aging affects the blood vessels in the brain and how that might lead to problems like Alzheimer's disease, using mice to explore how changes in blood flow can impact brain health and test new treatments that could help improve blood vessel function.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11087668 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of aging on the brain's blood vessels and how these changes may lead to conditions like Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to understand how reduced blood flow affects the integrity of the blood-brain barrier and contributes to cognitive decline. The research will involve experiments on mice to observe the effects of simulated reduced blood flow and test potential therapies targeting mitochondrial function in blood vessels. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the relationship between vascular health and brain aging.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or those at risk for neurodegenerative diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger or do not have any cognitive impairments may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain health and prevent cognitive decline in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of vascular health in brain aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.