Investigating myelin changes in aging and vascular dementia
Official title: Exploring the origins of myelin abnormalities in normal ageing and in vascular dementia
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11082427 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting older and having blood vessel problems can affect the protective covering of nerve fibers in the brain, which is important for thinking and memory, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding more about how these issues might relate to dementia and cognitive decline.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $710,227 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG072080-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082427 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those over 65, who may be experiencing cognitive decline or have risk factors for vascular dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have any cognitive disorders or vascular issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how aging and vascular issues affect myelin, the protective covering of nerve fibers, which is crucial for proper brain function. By studying both human subjects and mouse models, the research aims to understand the cellular stress experienced by oligodendrocytes, the cells responsible for myelin production, in the context of aging and cardiovascular health. The researchers will analyze the impact of these factors on cognitive decline and behavioral changes associated with dementia. This work could lead to insights into the mechanisms behind cognitive disorders and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for cognitive disorders related to aging and vascular health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between vascular health and cognitive decline, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Popko, Brian J — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Popko, Brian J
Related research
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This work looks at whether blocking an artery-cell channel called Panx1 can help older men and women have less brain damage and dementia after an ischemic stroke.
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Scale-up of a peptide therapy to help brain blood flow and inflammation in people at risk for Alzheimer’s-related dementias
A small US-based project will scale up manufacturing of a new peptide medicine (PNA5) intended to help people at risk for Alzheimer’s-related dementia and vascular dementia by improving brain blood flow and reducing inflammation.
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.