Improving brain insulin function to help cognitive issues after stroke

Targeting brain insulin to improve stroke-related vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia

NIH-funded research Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center · NIH-10950352

This study is looking at how insulin in the brain affects blood vessel health and thinking skills after a stroke, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve brain function for people dealing with memory and thinking problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRalph H Johnson VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10950352 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how brain insulin levels affect blood vessel function and cognitive impairment following a stroke. It aims to understand the mechanisms that lead to vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) by focusing on a protein that may hinder insulin transport in the brain. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve brain health and cognitive function in affected individuals. The study will utilize advanced imaging techniques and molecular analysis to assess changes in brain insulin signaling and vascular function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a stroke and are showing signs of cognitive impairment or dementia.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had a stroke or do not exhibit cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function in patients suffering from stroke-related cognitive impairment.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting brain insulin in this context is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding vascular contributions to cognitive impairment.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, 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 2026-06-09 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.