Investigating how aging affects the immune system and neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at James a. Haley VA Medical Center · NIH-11191016 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting older affects our immune system and brain health, with the goal of finding better ways to help older adults who are experiencing memory problems or diseases like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | James a. Haley VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2018 |
| Project end | March 31, 2032 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 2IK6BX004214-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11191016 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may be experiencing cognitive decline or are at risk for neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any cognitive impairment or neurodegenerative disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between aging and the innate immune system, particularly how these factors influence cognitive aging and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Paula C. Bickford, a Senior Research Career Scientist, aims to identify biological processes that could lead to more effective therapeutic interventions for older adults. By examining differences in immune responses between younger and older individuals, the research seeks to improve treatment strategies for age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions. The approach includes analyzing cellular mechanisms and pathways that change with age, which may inform future therapeutic developments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of aging in immune response can lead to significant advancements in treating age-related diseases, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
James a. Haley VA Medical Center
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bickford, Paula C — James a. Haley VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Bickford, Paula C
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.