Reprogramming blood vessel cells to help prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease and hypertension

Reprogramming endothelial cells to prevent and treat Alzheimer disease (AD) and Hypertension

NIH-funded research University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-11103308

This study is looking at how certain cells in your blood vessels might help us understand and improve Alzheimer's disease and high blood pressure, with the hope of finding new ways to boost brain health and blood flow for people dealing with these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11103308 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of vascular endothelial cells in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and hypertension. It aims to understand how these cells can be reprogrammed to improve blood flow and reduce the impact of misfolded proteins associated with AD. By examining the relationship between cardiovascular health and cognitive decline, the study seeks to identify new therapeutic approaches that could enhance patient outcomes. The methodology includes analyzing human and rodent vascular tissues to explore the mechanisms behind endothelial dysfunction and its connection to AD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are at risk for or currently experiencing Alzheimer's disease or hypertension.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without cardiovascular issues or cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and hypertension.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the link between cardiovascular health and Alzheimer's disease, indicating that this approach may yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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.
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.