Investigating the impact of incidental white matter lesions on brain health in diverse populations with cognitive issues

The Clinical Significance of Incidental White Matter Lesions on MRI Amongst a Diverse Population with Cognitive Complaints (INDEED)

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-10929332

This study is looking at how small spots in the brain, called white matter lesions, might affect memory and thinking skills in older adults who have concerns about their cognitive health, especially focusing on African Americans to see how blood vessel health plays a role in dementia risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10929332 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the significance of incidental white matter lesions (WMH) found on MRI scans, particularly in older adults experiencing cognitive complaints. It aims to understand how these lesions, which are often linked to vascular risk factors, affect memory and executive function. The study focuses on a diverse population, especially African Americans, to explore how vascular health influences dementia risk. By analyzing the relationship between WMH and cognitive decline, the research seeks to provide insights into the multifactorial nature of dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly African Americans, who have experienced cognitive complaints and have undergone MRI scans showing incidental white matter lesions.

Not a fit: Patients without cognitive complaints or those who do not have MRI scans indicating white matter lesions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of dementia risk factors, particularly in diverse populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that white matter lesions are associated with cognitive decline, suggesting that this study builds on established findings rather than exploring an entirely novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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 syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.