NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating the role of brain cells in Alzheimer's disease and vascular health

Official title: Exploring brain perivascular fibroblasts in health and cerebral amyloid angiopathy

Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11259610 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain cells in the brain help keep blood vessels healthy, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, using mice to learn more about how these cells affect blood flow and vessel stability.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project startAugust 1, 2023
Project endJanuary 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$224,355
NIH project number4R00AG080034-03
Project IDNIH-11259610 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it, particularly older adults.

Less likely to help

Patients with non-neurological conditions or those without any cognitive impairment are unlikely to benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of perivascular fibroblasts (PVFs) in maintaining the health of blood vessels in the brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers will use advanced imaging techniques to observe how these cells contribute to the stability of blood vessels and how their loss may lead to vascular issues associated with Alzheimer's. By studying mouse models, they aim to uncover the mechanisms by which PVFs affect blood flow and vessel structure in both healthy and diseased brains. This could provide insights into the relationship between vascular health and Alzheimer's pathology.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preserving brain vascular health and potentially slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of vascular health in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Colorado Denver
    Aurora, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Bonney, Stephanie — University of Colorado Denver
  • Study coordinator: Bonney, Stephanie

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.