Investigating how genetic risk and physical activity affect brain development in children
Official title: Measuring neurodevelopmental effects of genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease via cross-sectional study of brain, cognitive, and physical fitness variables in periadolescent children
Funded at University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11193211 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genetics and exercise affect brain development in kids aged 8 to 13, with the goal of finding ways to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease later in life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 16, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $37,727 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AG084348-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11193211 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are periadolescent children aged 8 to 13 years, particularly those with a family history of Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 8 to 13 years or those without genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of genetic risk factors and physical activity on brain development in children aged 8 to 13 years. By examining how these factors influence cognitive abilities and physical fitness, the study aims to uncover insights into the development of Alzheimer's disease-related brain networks. Participants will undergo assessments of their physical activity levels, cardiorespiratory fitness, and cognitive performance to understand the relationships between these variables and brain health. The findings could provide valuable information on how to mitigate Alzheimer's risk from an early age.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies for reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease through lifestyle modifications in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that physical activity can positively influence brain health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heller-Wight, Abi — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Heller-Wight, Abi
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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.