Investigating how the renin angiotensin system affects brain structure and cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease.

Effects of the renin angiotensin system on MRI volumetric measures and cognitive function in the Alzheimer's disease process: the LookAHEAD study

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10805451

This study is looking at how certain hormones in the body might affect thinking and memory in people who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease, especially those who are overweight and have type 2 diabetes, and it will follow participants for up to 14 years to see how these factors impact brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10805451 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between the renin angiotensin system (RAS) and cognitive function in individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those who are obese and have type 2 diabetes. By measuring RAS peptides over a long period, the study aims to understand how these factors contribute to changes in brain structure and cognitive abilities. Participants will be followed for 9-14 years to gather comprehensive data on the effects of RAS on brain health. The findings could lead to new insights into potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cognitively normal individuals who are obese and have type 2 diabetes, placing them at increased risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease or do not have obesity or type 2 diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or slowing cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of the renin angiotensin system in cognitive function, but this specific long-term approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
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.