Identifying proteins linked to cognitive decline in Black and White adults
Official title: Proteomic biomarkers of incident cognitive impairment in Black and White adults
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11098546 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation and other factors might affect memory and thinking skills in Black and White adults, using blood samples to find proteins that could help us understand and prevent cognitive decline and dementia over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $727,319 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AG082042-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098546 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include Black and White adults over the age of 21 who are at risk for cognitive impairment or dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not part of the Black or White adult populations or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of inflammation and other factors in the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia among Black and White adults. By analyzing blood samples from a large group of participants, the study aims to identify specific proteins that may be associated with cognitive decline. The research will utilize data from the REGARDS study, which includes a diverse population and extensive health information. Participants will be monitored over a period of more than 17 years to track changes in cognitive function and identify potential biomarkers for early intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the identification of biomarkers that help predict cognitive decline, allowing for earlier interventions and tailored treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers related to cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raffield, Laura M — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Raffield, Laura M
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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.