How lung problems may affect Alzheimer's disease progression
Communicating Lung Dysfunction to the Brain in Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how problems with lung health, especially in older adults with asthma, might affect the brain and worsen Alzheimer's disease, hoping to find ways to slow down or prevent the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Dakota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Forks, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10711004 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between lung dysfunction and Alzheimer's disease (AD) by exploring how inflammation in the lungs may influence brain changes associated with AD. The study focuses on older adults, particularly those with asthma, to understand how chronic lung inflammation can exacerbate AD symptoms. Researchers will use mouse models to examine the communication between lung and brain cells and assess the impact of lung health on AD progression. By identifying these links, the research aims to uncover potential environmental risk factors that could be targeted to slow down or prevent the advancement of Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and experiencing lung dysfunction or asthma.
Not a fit: Patients without Alzheimer's disease or significant lung issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease in patients with lung conditions.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking lung dysfunction to Alzheimer's is novel, related research has shown that inflammation can impact brain health, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Grand Forks, United States
- University of North Dakota — Grand Forks, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Combs, Colin K — University of North Dakota
- Study coordinator: Combs, Colin K
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.