Exploring how brain health, lifestyle, and aging affect memory and thinking skills
Unraveling the intersection of synaptic biology, lifestyle, and cognitive resilience
This study is looking at how brain health and lifestyle choices, like staying active, can help older adults stay sharp and potentially protect against memory loss and dementia, by examining brain samples from people aged 65 and up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086673 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain biological processes in the brain, along with lifestyle factors like physical activity, contribute to cognitive resilience in older adults. By examining brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid samples from individuals aged 65 and older, the study aims to identify specific synaptic proteins that may protect against cognitive decline and dementia. The research involves collaboration between two prominent aging research centers to gather and analyze data from both deceased and living participants. Ultimately, the goal is to uncover mechanisms that could help prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who are interested in understanding factors that contribute to cognitive resilience.
Not a fit: Patients who are currently experiencing significant cognitive impairment or dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for maintaining cognitive health and preventing dementia in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between synaptic integrity, physical activity, and cognitive health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Casaletto, Kaitlin B — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Casaletto, Kaitlin B
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.