Investigating how early life heart health affects brain health and aging related to Alzheimer's disease
Early Life Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors, Epigenetic Age Acceleration, and Alzheimer's Disease Related Brain Health
This study is looking at how heart health in childhood might affect brain health and aging as people get older, especially in relation to memory and the risk of Alzheimer's disease, so we can find ways to help prevent dementia later in life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017840 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the connections between cardiovascular disease risk factors in childhood and their impact on brain health and aging as individuals reach midlife. By examining epigenetic age acceleration, which reflects biological aging at the DNA level, the study aims to uncover how early heart health influences cognitive function and the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Participants will be monitored over time to assess changes in their brain health and cognitive abilities, providing insights into potential preventive measures against dementia. The research seeks to establish a clearer understanding of how early life factors can shape brain health later in life.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who have a history of cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have any cardiovascular disease risk factors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing Alzheimer's disease by addressing cardiovascular health from an early age.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in linking cardiovascular health with cognitive function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kelly, Tanika Nicole — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Kelly, Tanika Nicole
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.