Investigating how mitochondrial dysfunction affects brain health in aging and cerebrovascular disease

Exploring the mechanisms of dysfunctional mitochondrial quality control in cerebrovascular disease and the aging brain

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11031447

This study is looking at how issues with the tiny powerhouses in our cells, called mitochondria, might play a role in brain diseases like Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, especially after strokes, to help find better ways to prevent or treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11031447 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how problems with mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, contribute to brain diseases like Alzheimer's and other dementias. The study will explore the mechanisms that regulate mitochondrial health and how their dysfunction can lead to neurological damage, particularly after events like strokes. Using advanced technologies such as machine learning and live cell imaging, researchers will create models to simulate mitochondrial behavior and identify critical phases of dysfunction. This could lead to new insights into preventing or treating these debilitating conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing cognitive decline or those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neurological conditions or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's disease and related dementiaAlzheimer's disease and related disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.