Investigating how blood and brain changes relate vascular risks to dementia in older adults.
The role of blood and brain 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in linking vascular risk factors to ADRD in older White and Black persons
This study is looking at how conditions like diabetes might affect the risk of Alzheimer's Disease in older adults, especially among White and Black communities, by checking changes in DNA from blood and brain samples to help us learn more about how heart and blood vessel health can influence memory and thinking problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10883882 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between vascular risk factors, such as diabetes, and Alzheimer's Disease (AD) in older adults, particularly focusing on both White and Black populations. It utilizes advanced techniques to analyze epigenetic changes in DNA, specifically looking at 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) levels in blood and brain tissues. By understanding these links, the study aims to uncover new insights into how vascular health impacts cognitive decline and dementia. Participants may undergo blood tests to assess these epigenetic markers, contributing to a better understanding of dementia risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those with vascular risk factors like diabetes, who are at risk for Alzheimer's Disease.
Not a fit: Patients without vascular risk factors or those who do not have a family history of Alzheimer's Disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies and treatments for Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in linking vascular health to cognitive decline, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arvanitakis, Zoe — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Arvanitakis, Zoe
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.