Imaging tiny brain vessels to understand vascular dementia

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This project uses a new high-resolution, black-blood MRI technique to visualize cerebral small vessels and a 3D analysis pipeline to measure their shape and density. It also applies arterial spin labeling to measure microvascular blood flow, which may reflect vascular health in the brain. The goal is to link vessel features and perfusion with cognitive symptoms in VCID, advancing our understanding of how small vessel disease contributes to dementia. The work leverages existing imaging expertise at USC and aims to translate these imaging biomarkers toward better diagnosis and monitoring. Participants would undergo advanced MRI scans as part of their care and research contribution.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• University of Southern California
  Los Angeles, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Wang, Danny Jj — University of Southern California
• Study coordinator: Wang, Danny Jj

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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.