Investigating how blood flow in brain veins affects dementia

Brain Drain: In Vivo Optical Interrogation of Venular Function in Gray and White Matter

['FUNDING_R01'] · SEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11212205

This study is looking at how tiny veins in the brain might affect memory and thinking as we age, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, to help us understand how changes in these veins can impact brain health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11212205 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of cerebral venules, the small veins in the brain, in contributing to dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to visualize and understand how age-related changes in these venules impact blood flow in critical areas of the brain. The research focuses on deep gray and white matter, which are essential for cognitive function, and seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind venous drainage impairment. This could lead to new insights into the vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing cognitive impairment or dementia.

Not a fit: Patients with non-age-related cognitive impairments or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential new treatments for dementia-related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While the focus on venular pathology in dementia is less explored, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in understanding vascular contributions to other neurological conditions.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: age associated disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.