Improving blood flow in the brain for Alzheimer's disease

Modifying endothelial Piezo 1 function to improve brain perfusion in AD/ADRD

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11052457

This study is looking at how a protein called Piezo1 affects blood flow in the brains of people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, hoping to find ways to improve circulation and help with some of the symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052457 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a specific protein, Piezo1, affects blood flow in the brain, particularly in patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study aims to understand how the loss of Piezo1 function can lead to reduced blood flow and contribute to brain health issues. By exploring the activation of Piezo1, researchers hope to find ways to enhance blood circulation in the brain, potentially alleviating some symptoms associated with Alzheimer's. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and analysis of patient data to assess the impact of Piezo1 on brain perfusion.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of dementia not related to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain blood flow and potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of Piezo1 in vascular health, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 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.