Stem cell–derived exosomes and MrgD as potential treatment for vascular cognitive impairment in aging
Official title: Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes, MrgD and Vascular Cognitive Impairment in Aging
Funded at North Dakota State University · NIH-11369637 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study explores whether tiny vesicles from aging stem cells and a MrgD activator could protect brain blood vessels and slow cognitive decline in older adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Dakota State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fargo, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2017 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $442,393 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG056881-09 |
| Project ID | NIH-11369637 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older with or at risk for Alzheimer’s disease dementia or vascular cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without vascular or cognitive impairment or those not interested in participating in early-stage biological research may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at how small particles called exosomes from aging blood stem cells affect brain blood vessels and mitochondrial energy in aging. It compares exosomes from young versus old donors and tests whether activating MrgD can reverse vascular problems linked to cognitive decline. The work includes RNA analysis of exosome cargo and functional tests on brain microvascular cells and vessels in aging models. If the approach works, it could point to a new way to protect brain health in people at risk for vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s-related cognitive decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could lead to new therapies that protect brain blood vessels and slow cognitive decline in aging individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s-related dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies show that altering exosome signaling and MrgD pathways can influence brain vascular function in aging models, supporting further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
North Dakota State University
Fargo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jarajapu, Yagna — North Dakota State University
- Study coordinator: Jarajapu, Yagna
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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.