Investigating how blood flow in the brain is controlled during neuronal activity.

Cerebral Microvascular Signaling and Neurovascular Coupling: An Integrated Approach to Investigate VCID

['FUNDING_R01'] · FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY · NIH-10850573

This study is looking at how brain activity affects blood flow, which is important for keeping our brain cells healthy, and it's aimed at helping people understand the links between these processes and conditions like cognitive decline and dementia.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorFLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MIAMI, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10850573 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how neuronal activity leads to increased blood flow in the brain, a process known as neurovascular coupling (NVC). By developing models of brain cells, the researchers aim to explore how potassium ions influence blood flow regulation in small blood vessels. The study will utilize advanced modeling techniques and ex-vivo preparations to investigate the communication between capillaries and arterioles, which is crucial for maintaining adequate oxygen and nutrient supply to active neurons. This research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind NVC disruptions that are linked to cognitive decline and dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not experiencing cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the vascular causes of cognitive impairment and potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neurovascular coupling, but this approach aims to provide deeper insights into the mechanisms involved, making it a novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

MIAMI, 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: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's 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.