Investigating how long non-coding RNAs affect brain health in vascular cognitive impairment and dementia
Official title: Long non-coding RNAs mediate white and grey matter integrity in vascular cognitive impairment and dementia
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11075246 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules in our cells, called long non-coding RNAs, might affect brain blood vessel health and contribute to memory problems in people with vascular cognitive impairment and dementia, with the hope of finding new ways to improve treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | April 16, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $600,454 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS136154-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075246 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals diagnosed with vascular cognitive impairment or dementia, particularly those with a history of cerebrovascular issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive impairment due to non-vascular causes, such as Alzheimer's disease or other neurodegenerative disorders, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID), which is a significant cause of cognitive decline. The study aims to explore how these lncRNAs influence brain blood vessel function and contribute to cognitive decline associated with cerebrovascular issues. By examining the expression of specific lncRNAs in mouse models, researchers hope to uncover new insights into the mechanisms behind VCID and identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatment options that arise from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve cognitive function and quality of life for patients with vascular cognitive impairment and dementia.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of lncRNAs in other diseases has been studied, this specific investigation into their impact on VCID is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yin, Kejie — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Yin, Kejie
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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.