How stress affects blood vessels and brain function in Alzheimer's disease

Psychosocial Stress-Induced Vascular Contributions To Cognitive Impairment And Alzheimer's Disease: The Role of Xanthine Oxidase

['FUNDING_R01'] · WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY · NIH-10909848

This study is looking at how long-term stress affects blood vessel health and thinking skills, especially for people at risk of Alzheimer's disease, to find ways to help improve brain health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10909848 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between chronic psychosocial stress and its impact on blood vessel health and cognitive function, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The study focuses on understanding how stress increases the activity of xanthine oxidase, an enzyme that may contribute to vascular dysfunction and inflammation, leading to cognitive impairment. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential targets for therapeutic intervention that could improve brain health in individuals at risk for dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic stress who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairment not related to vascular issues or those without a history of chronic stress may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the links between vascular health and cognitive function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.