Investigating how blood-brain barrier and white matter changes contribute to dementia
Blood-brain-barrier and white matter mechanisms underlying dementia
This study is looking at how low blood flow can harm brain cells and contribute to dementia in older adults, using mice to find out what happens in the brain early on, with the hope of discovering new ways to help treat dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11051836 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind white matter damage and its role in dementia, particularly in older adults. The study examines how chronic low blood flow affects brain cells and leads to neurodegeneration. By using a mouse model that mimics human conditions, researchers will explore the early cellular changes that occur in the brain, such as the loss of specific cell types and the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. The goal is to identify critical factors that could lead to new treatments for dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may be experiencing early signs of dementia or cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to white matter changes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating dementia in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of white matter changes in dementia, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Memphis, United States
- University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr — Memphis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liao, Francesca-Fang — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Liao, Francesca-Fang
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.