Investigating how a specific gene variant affects brain blood flow and cognitive decline

ApoE4, Neurovascular Injury and Cognitive Impairment

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11053637

This study is looking at how a specific gene linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's affects blood flow in the brain and could lead to memory problems, and it's for people who have this gene variant to help us understand how it impacts their brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11053637 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the ApoE4 gene variant, which is linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairment. It aims to understand how this variant affects blood flow in the brain and contributes to damage in white matter, which is crucial for cognitive function. By studying the mechanisms behind neurovascular injury, the research seeks to uncover the role of specific brain cells in promoting inflammation and oxidative stress that may lead to cognitive decline. Patients with the ApoE4 variant may be monitored to assess the impact of these factors on their cognitive health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who carry the ApoE4 allele and are experiencing cognitive impairment or are at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not carry the ApoE4 allele or who have other forms of cognitive impairment unrelated to vascular issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline in individuals with the ApoE4 variant.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting neurovascular dysfunction can improve cognitive outcomes in similar populations, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 2026-06-13 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.