Investigating how a specific microRNA affects blood vessel function in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Vascular MicroRNA-212 in CAA and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-10807420 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a tiny molecule called microRNA-212 affects the blood vessels in the brain and its link to Alzheimer's disease, hoping to find ways to improve brain health and thinking skills for people dealing with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $393,904 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS135606-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10807420 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who may be experiencing cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of microRNA-212 in the brain's blood vessels and its connection to Alzheimer's disease. It examines how amyloid beta, a protein associated with Alzheimer's, may damage endothelial cells, leading to issues like microbleeds and impaired blood flow. By studying human and mouse brain cells, the research aims to uncover how changes in microRNA levels can contribute to the failure of the blood-brain barrier and overall neurovascular dysfunction. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving cognitive function in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting microRNAs can have significant effects on neurovascular health, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fossati, Silvia — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Fossati, Silvia
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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.