How lowering blood pressure affects brain health in older adults
Impact of Intensive Treatment of Systolic Blood Pressure on Brain Perfusion, Amyloid and Tau in Older Adults (IPAT-study)
This study is looking at whether lowering blood pressure to a healthier level can help protect the brains of older adults from harmful proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease, and it's for those who want to understand how managing blood pressure might support their brain health as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11135110 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of intensive treatment of systolic blood pressure on brain health in older adults, particularly focusing on the accumulation of amyloid and tau proteins, which are linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to determine if lowering blood pressure to below 120 mmHg, compared to a target of below 140 mmHg, can improve brain perfusion and reduce these harmful proteins. By examining brain function through advanced imaging techniques, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms by which blood pressure management may influence cognitive health in older individuals at risk for dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have hypertension and are at high risk for dementia.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have hypertension may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer's disease in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, such as the SPRINT trial, have shown that intensive blood pressure treatment can reduce the risk of cognitive impairment, indicating potential success for similar approaches.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Rong — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Rong
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.