Investigating brain injury effects on blood vessel health and dementia
Longitudinal MRI Investigation of Traumatic Microvascular Injury
This study is looking at how a traumatic brain injury can affect the tiny blood vessels in your brain and lead to memory problems or dementia, especially Alzheimer's, using special MRI scans to see how things change over time, so we can better understand recovery and treatment options for people who have had a TBI.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11031301 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects the small blood vessels in the brain and contributes to cognitive decline and dementia, particularly Alzheimer's Disease Related Dementia (ADRD). By using advanced MRI techniques, the study aims to track changes in microvascular health over time in individuals who have experienced TBI. The goal is to identify reliable imaging biomarkers that can help predict patient outcomes, monitor recovery, and guide treatment strategies. This research seeks to bridge the gap in knowledge regarding the long-term effects of TBI on brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury and are at risk for developing dementia.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or those with pre-existing dementia unrelated to TBI may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting cognitive decline and developing targeted therapies for patients with a history of traumatic brain injury.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between microvascular injury and cognitive decline, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ware, Jeffrey B — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Ware, Jeffrey B
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 below.