Investigating how imbalances in amylin affect blood vessels and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.
The Amylin Dyshomeostasis Hypothesis of Vascular Contributions to Cognitive Impairment and Dementia (VCID)
This study is looking at how a hormone called amylin affects blood vessels in the brain and may contribute to memory problems in people with Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to help those living with the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10818353 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between amylin, a hormone involved in regulating appetite, and small blood vessel diseases that contribute to cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease. By studying how amylin dyshomeostasis affects brain blood vessels and amyloid plaque formation, the researchers aim to identify new therapeutic strategies. The approach includes using animal models to observe the effects of amylin on vascular health and cognitive function, potentially leading to innovative treatments for Alzheimer's patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairment not related to Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve cognitive function and vascular health in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting amylin dyshomeostasis in Alzheimer's is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding vascular contributions to cognitive impairment.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Despa, Florin — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Despa, Florin
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.