How heart health affects brain aging in humans and great apes
Lifespan and Cardiovascular Health Effects on The Brain in Humans and Great Ape
This study looks at how heart health affects brain function as we get older, comparing humans to our closest relatives like chimpanzees and gorillas, to help us understand why we might experience more memory and thinking problems as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11193426 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between cardiovascular health and cognitive decline as humans age, comparing findings with great apes like chimpanzees and gorillas. By examining brain health and the impact of heart disease, the study aims to uncover why humans experience more significant cognitive decline than our closest relatives. The research employs advanced techniques such as stereology and electron microscopy to analyze brain cell densities and other factors related to aging and cardiovascular health. This could provide insights into preventing or mitigating age-related cognitive impairments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or cardiovascular issues.
Not a fit: Patients with no age-related cognitive decline or cardiovascular health issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and strategies for preventing cognitive decline in aging populations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between cardiovascular health and cognitive function, suggesting this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hof, Patrick R — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Hof, Patrick R
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.