Investigating how IGF-1 affects blood vessel health in older adults with cognitive decline
The role of IGF-1 signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells in age-related vascular cognitive impairment and dementia
This study is looking at how a substance called IGF-1 helps keep blood vessels healthy in older adults, especially those with memory problems, and it aims to find ways to improve brain health by understanding how aging affects these blood vessels.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103150 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in maintaining the health of blood vessels in older adults, particularly those experiencing vascular cognitive impairment and dementia. The study examines how aging affects vascular smooth muscle cells, which are crucial for blood vessel integrity, and how low levels of IGF-1 may contribute to the fragility of these vessels. By using rodent models, the researchers aim to uncover the cellular mechanisms behind age-related vascular issues and explore potential therapeutic interventions to improve cognitive health in the elderly.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing cognitive decline or related vascular issues.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance blood vessel health and cognitive function in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting vascular health can improve cognitive outcomes in older adults, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
Oklahoma City, United States
- University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr — Oklahoma City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Conley, Shannon M — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Conley, Shannon M
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.