Investigating how PAI-1 affects blood vessel function and Alzheimer's disease development

The Role of PAI-1 in Cerebral Microvascular Dysfunction and the Development of Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropathology

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10864941

This study is looking at how a protein called PAI-1 might affect tiny blood vessels in the brain and its connection to Alzheimer's disease, especially how heart health can influence this, with the hope of finding new ways to diagnose or treat the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10864941 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) in the dysfunction of cerebral microvessels and its potential link to Alzheimer's disease (AD). By examining how cardiovascular disease risk factors influence PAI-1 levels and contribute to cognitive decline, the study aims to uncover new pathways that may lead to AD. The approach includes analyzing biological samples and using animal models to understand the mechanisms involved. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new diagnostic tools or treatments targeting PAI-1.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with cardiovascular risk factors.

Not a fit: Patients with established Alzheimer's disease who are not at risk due to cardiovascular factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting PAI-1.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results linking vascular factors to Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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 syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.