Microvascular changes in adults with genetic risk for Alzheimer's
Characterizing microvascular impairment in adults with elevated genetic risk for Alzheimer's Disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11303280
Researchers will measure small blood vessel function and how well the brain gets oxygen in older adults who carry the APOE-ε4 gene linked to Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11303280 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be invited if you are an older adult with higher genetic risk for Alzheimer's (APOE-ε4) or a matched control. You will have brain imaging and related tests that look at cerebral blood flow, white matter lesions, and how efficiently capillaries extract oxygen. The team will compare people with and without the APOE-ε4 gene to see whether microvascular problems explain reduced oxygen in the brain. Participation includes visits to Massachusetts General Hospital and genetic testing if you do not already know your APOE status.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults, typically age 65 or older, who carry or are willing to be tested for the APOE-ε4 gene and can travel to Boston for imaging visits.
Not a fit: People with advanced symptomatic Alzheimer's disease or younger individuals without APOE-ε4 are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help detect early vascular changes linked to genetic risk and point to vascular-targeted ways to protect memory and brain health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked APOE-ε4 to blood flow changes and white matter lesions, but detailed measurements of capillary oxygen extraction and microvascular mechanisms are newer and less established.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: JUTTUKONDA, MEHER R — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: JUTTUKONDA, MEHER R
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 below.