Investigating how high blood pressure affects brain health and cognitive function as we age
Age-related Hypertension and Vascular Cognitive Impairment
This study is looking at how high blood pressure in older adults might affect brain health and lead to memory problems, and it’s testing a type of medication that could help improve thinking skills for those with high blood pressure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10975734 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between age-related high blood pressure and vascular cognitive impairment, which is a leading cause of dementia. It focuses on understanding how hypertension impacts the blood-brain barrier and contributes to neuroinflammation, potentially leading to cognitive decline. The study uses a rat model to examine the effects of Angiotensin II Type 1 receptor antagonists, which are medications that may improve cognitive function in individuals with hypertension. By identifying these mechanisms, the research aims to provide insights into preventing or mitigating cognitive impairment associated with aging and hypertension.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those with hypertension or at risk of developing cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have hypertension may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive health in older adults with high blood pressure.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting hypertension can improve cognitive function, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wainford, Richard David — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Wainford, Richard David
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.