Investigating how mitochondrial DNA and environment affect cognitive function and dementia in different ethnic groups
Ethnic-specific Effects of Mitochondrial DNA Variants and Environmental Factors on Cognitive Functioning and Dementia
This study is looking at how certain genes and lifestyle choices affect thinking skills and the risk of dementia in older adults from different backgrounds, and it invites participants to share their health information and possibly take part in genetic tests to help us learn more.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10830971 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific mitochondrial DNA variants and environmental factors influence cognitive functioning and the risk of dementia, particularly among older adults from diverse ethnic backgrounds. By utilizing advanced genomic tools, the study aims to identify ethnic-specific genetic markers associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The research will involve analyzing large, multi-ethnic cohorts to assess cognitive decline and its relationship with lifestyle and metabolic factors. Patients may be asked to participate in genetic analyses and provide health information to help uncover these associations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are older adults aged 75 and above, particularly those from African American, Hispanic, and Non-Hispanic White backgrounds.
Not a fit: Patients under 75 years of age or those without a family history of cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized prevention and treatment strategies for dementia based on genetic and environmental factors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying genetic factors related to Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cohen, Pinchas — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Cohen, Pinchas
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.