How lifetime racial and ethnic discrimination affects brain function and Alzheimer's risk
Brain Effects of Lifetime Racial/Ethnic Discrimination on the LC-NE Function and the Risk for Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how experiences of racial and ethnic discrimination throughout life might affect brain health, especially in Black individuals, and how this could relate to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease; if you join, you’ll help researchers learn more about these important health differences by undergoing brain scans and memory tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877854 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of lifetime racial and ethnic discrimination on brain function, specifically focusing on the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) system, and its relationship to Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study aims to understand why certain populations, particularly Black individuals, may be at a higher risk for developing AD and related cognitive impairments. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques to measure norepinephrine transporter availability in the brain, the research seeks to uncover disparities in brain health and aging. Participants may undergo brain imaging and cognitive assessments to contribute to this important understanding of health disparities in Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include Black individuals, particularly those in mid-life, who may be at higher risk for Alzheimer's disease due to lifetime experiences of discrimination.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as Black or who do not have concerns related to Alzheimer's disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and targeted interventions for Alzheimer's disease in populations disproportionately affected by it.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research specifically addressing the intersection of racial discrimination and Alzheimer's disease, studies have shown that health disparities exist in cognitive decline among different racial groups, indicating a need for further exploration in this area.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ding, Yu-Shin — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ding, Yu-Shin
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.