Mapping how air pollution affects brain health as we age

Worldwide Mapping of Air Pollution Exposure Patterns on Aging Brain Health

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10870162

This study is looking at how outdoor air pollution might affect brain health as we age, especially for people with Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to understand these effects better by using advanced brain imaging techniques and considering different factors that could play a role.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10870162 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of outdoor air pollution on brain health, particularly focusing on aging and Alzheimer's disease. By utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques, the study aims to uncover how pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM2.5) affect brain structure and function. It also considers various biopsychosocial factors that may influence these effects, aiming to create a comprehensive model that reflects diverse global populations. The research involves collaboration across multiple countries to ensure a wide range of data and insights.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults who are exposed to varying levels of air pollution and may be at risk for cognitive decline or Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not exposed to significant air pollution or who do not have concerns related to aging or cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease linked to air pollution.

How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored the effects of air pollution on health, this research is novel in its comprehensive approach using neuroimaging across diverse populations.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.