Investigating how certain medications affect brain health in older adults
Translational pharmacoepidemiology: neuroprotection and neurotoxicity of antihypertensives and strong anticholinergics
This study is looking at how certain common medications for high blood pressure and other conditions might affect brain health in older adults, helping us understand if they could protect against or harm the brain, which is important for preventing dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kaiser Foundation Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oakland, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124791 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research examines the effects of commonly prescribed medications, particularly antihypertensives and anticholinergics, on brain health in older adults. By utilizing a unique cohort from the Adult Changes in Thought study, the research aims to identify whether these medications have neuroprotective or neurotoxic effects. The study employs advanced methodologies, including human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons, to explore the underlying mechanisms of these effects. This multifaceted approach seeks to clarify the relationship between medication use and dementia risk, providing valuable insights for future treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 who are taking antihypertensive or anticholinergic medications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently on these medications or who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved medication guidelines that enhance brain health and reduce dementia risk in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of medications on brain health, making this approach both relevant and potentially groundbreaking.
Where this research is happening
Oakland, UNITED STATES
- Kaiser Foundation Research Institute — Oakland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gray, Shelly L — Kaiser Foundation Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Gray, Shelly L
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.