Investigating how certain cell mechanisms contribute to brain injury and cognitive decline in older adults
Oligodendrocyte Progenitors and Hyaluronan-mediated Mechanisms of Human Vascular White Matter Injury
This study is looking at why the brain struggles to repair itself in older adults, especially when it comes to myelin, which is important for healthy brain function, and it aims to find ways to help improve brain health and memory in seniors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10875693 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the failure of remyelination in the brain, which is a significant factor in cognitive impairment and dementia among the elderly. The study examines how oxidative stress in blood vessels leads to the production of hyaluronic acid fragments that disrupt the development of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, crucial for repairing myelin in the brain. By analyzing human brain tissue and using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of white matter injury and its relationship to cognitive decline. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving brain health in older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have experienced cognitive decline or have been diagnosed with vascular cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 years old or do not have any cognitive impairment related to vascular issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance brain repair mechanisms and improve cognitive function in older adults suffering from vascular-related cognitive impairment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the mechanisms of vascular cognitive impairment, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Back, Stephen Arthur — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Back, Stephen Arthur
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.