The effects of fine particulate matter on brain inflammation and cognitive function
Official title: Fine particulate matter exposure and small cerebrovascular inflammation
Funded at University of Missouri-Columbia · NIH-10807363 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny particles in the air might cause inflammation in the brain's small blood vessels, which could lead to memory problems and dementia, and it's using animal models to understand how this happens so we can find ways to help protect our brains from air pollution.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,151,314 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS132279-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10807363 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those living in areas with high levels of air pollution who may be at risk for cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not exposed to fine particulate matter or who do not have risk factors for cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to fine particulate matter (PM) in the air may lead to inflammation in small blood vessels in the brain, which could contribute to cognitive decline and dementia. The study utilizes animal models to explore the mechanisms behind this relationship, focusing on the inflammatory responses triggered by PM exposure. By examining the levels of specific inflammatory markers in the brain and blood, the research aims to uncover how PM affects cognitive abilities and memory. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing or mitigating cognitive impairment associated with air pollution.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cognitive decline and dementia related to air pollution exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a link between air pollution and cognitive decline, suggesting that this research builds on established findings but explores new mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Zhenguo — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Liu, Zhenguo
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.