Investigating brain inflammation and metabolites in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: MRI biomarkers of glial-specific metabolites and microstructure in aging
Funded at University of California Riverside · NIH-10742593 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation in the brain affects thinking and memory in older adults and people with Alzheimer's, using special MRI scans to learn more about brain health without any needles or surgery, which could help find better ways to treat cognitive decline.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Riverside NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Riverside, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $433,125 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG080282-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10742593 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger or do not have any cognitive impairments or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how inflammation in the brain, particularly involving glial cells, affects cognitive function in older adults and those with Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced MRI techniques, the study aims to measure specific metabolites and microstructural changes in the brain that are associated with aging and Alzheimer's. This non-invasive approach allows researchers to gather crucial information about brain health without the need for injections or invasive procedures. The findings could lead to better understanding and potential new treatments for cognitive decline in the elderly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using MRI techniques to study brain inflammation and metabolites, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Riverside
Riverside, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bennett, Ilana Jacqueline — University of California Riverside
- Study coordinator: Bennett, Ilana Jacqueline
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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.