Investigating the effects of neurovascular calcification on brain health and cognition
Official title: Neurovascular Calcification: Consequences and Treatment
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-11089471 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how hardening of the blood vessels in the brain affects thinking and memory, especially in older people and those with kidney problems, by examining brain tissue and testing ideas in mice to find ways to help prevent or treat these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $217,153 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS137281-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089471 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those with chronic kidney disease, who may be at higher risk for cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 years old or do not have chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how calcification in the blood vessels of the brain affects cognitive function, particularly in older adults and those with chronic kidney disease. The team will study brain tissue from autopsies to identify patterns of calcification and its relationship to brain injuries. Additionally, they will conduct experiments in mice to explore how neurovascular calcification contributes to cognitive decline and investigate potential treatments or preventive measures. The goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline associated with vascular issues in aging populations.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on neurovascular calcification is novel, related research has shown promising results in understanding vascular contributions to cognitive impairment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fisher, Mark J — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Fisher, Mark J
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.