Investigating how variations in brain blood flow may affect cognitive decline.
Prevalence and impact of cerebral anatomical variations: a risk factor for cognitive decline?
This study looks at how differences in blood flow in the brain might affect thinking and memory in middle-aged and older adults, especially those with a condition called vertebral artery hypoplasia, to help us understand the risk of cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10477190 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between variations in brain blood flow and cognitive health in middle-aged and older adults. It focuses on a specific anatomical variation known as vertebral artery hypoplasia, which may lead to chronic low blood flow in the brain. By analyzing existing MRI scans, the study aims to understand how these variations impact cognitive function and the risk of conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The goal is to uncover potential mechanisms that contribute to cognitive decline, providing insights into brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are middle-aged and older adults who may have variations in their cerebral blood flow or are experiencing cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have any cognitive impairment or related anatomical variations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential interventions for preventing cognitive decline in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that variations in cerebral blood flow can impact cognitive health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barnes, Jill Nicole — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Barnes, Jill Nicole
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.