Investigating how breathing affects brain waste clearance in Alzheimer's disease
Neuroimaging the impact of respiration and respiratory-gated neuromodulation on human glymphatic physiology
This study is looking at how our breathing affects the flow of fluid in the brain that helps clear out waste, especially for people with Alzheimer's disease, to see if natural breathing and a gentle stimulation technique can improve brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11000755 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between breathing patterns and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, which is crucial for clearing waste products. It aims to understand how natural breathing and a specific noninvasive stimulation technique can enhance CSF flow, particularly in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study will measure how these factors interact to improve brain health. The findings could lead to new therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related neurodegenerative conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without neurodegenerative disorders or those who do not have cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative noninvasive treatments that enhance brain waste clearance, potentially slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using noninvasive techniques to influence brain physiology, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lewis, Laura Diane — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Lewis, Laura Diane
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.