Investigating how blood vessel health affects aging in people with schizophrenia
Official title: The Vascular Axis in Schizophrenia Brain-Body Aging
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11052487 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how blood vessel health affects aging in people with schizophrenia, using special brain scans and tests to understand why they might face more health risks as they get older, with the hope of finding better ways to help them stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | March 8, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $651,937 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133812-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052487 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders who may be experiencing accelerated aging and related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorders or those who do not exhibit signs of accelerated aging may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between vascular health and accelerated aging in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. By using advanced brain imaging techniques and vascular biology measures, the study aims to identify how vascular factors contribute to age-related changes in both the brain and cardiovascular system. The goal is to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to increased health risks in this population, ultimately improving screening and management strategies. Participants may undergo various assessments to evaluate their vascular health and brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of health risks associated with schizophrenia, potentially improving lifespan and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between vascular health and brain aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hong, L Elliot Elliot — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Hong, L Elliot Elliot
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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.