Investigating the role of enhancer RNAs in vascular dementia
Official title: Enhancer RNAs and enhancer-centric gene regulatory networks in vascular dementia
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-10786221 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules called enhancer RNAs might play a role in the development of vascular dementia, using mice to mimic the effects of reduced blood flow to the brain, which could help us understand this condition better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $150,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AG084918-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10786221 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing symptoms of vascular dementia or related cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to vascular issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) contribute to the development of vascular dementia. By using a mouse model that simulates conditions of reduced blood flow to the brain, researchers will identify specific eRNAs expressed in the hippocampus during the progression of this condition. The study employs advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and chromatin mapping to uncover the gene regulatory networks involved in vascular dementia. This could lead to new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying this type of dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating vascular dementia, potentially improving outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of eRNAs in vascular dementia is relatively novel, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding their function in other brain injuries.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dharap, Ashutosh — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Dharap, Ashutosh
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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.