Investigating how a specific signaling molecule affects brain blood vessel health in dementia.

Sphingosine 1 phosphate signaling in cerebral small vessel disease

NIH-funded research University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-9972630

This study is looking at how a substance called sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) might help protect the blood-brain barrier and improve brain health for people with Cerebral Small Vessel Disease, which can lead to dementia, and it hopes to find new ways to slow down or prevent this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-9972630 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding Cerebral Small Vessel Disease (SVD), a condition that significantly contributes to dementia. It aims to explore the role of sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) in maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, which is crucial for brain health. By examining how S1P signaling can potentially reverse damage to the blood-brain barrier, the study seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies to prevent or slow the progression of SVD and related dementias. Patients may be involved in studies assessing the effects of S1P on vascular health and cognitive function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Cerebral Small Vessel Disease or related vascular dementias.

Not a fit: Patients with non-vascular forms of dementia or those without any cerebrovascular issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain blood vessel function and slow down the progression of dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting blood-brain barrier dysfunction in other vascular conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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.
Conditions Intracranial Vascular DiseasesIntracranial Vascular Disordersbrain vascular diseasecerebral vascular disease
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.