The link between blood vessel health and Alzheimer's disease progression

Vasculo-neuronal pathophysiological interface in Alzheimer’s and Atherosclerosis

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11020034

This study is looking at how heart and blood vessel problems, like narrowed arteries, might make Alzheimer's disease worse, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how blood flow affects brain health in people with Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11020034 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerosis, contribute to the worsening of Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on understanding the impact of narrowed blood vessels and plaque ruptures on brain function and cognitive decline. By studying the brain vasculature in mice with Alzheimer's pathology, the research aims to uncover specific vulnerabilities and changes in blood flow that may exacerbate cognitive impairment. The findings could lead to new insights into how vascular health influences Alzheimer's disease progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who also have cardiovascular conditions like atherosclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients without Alzheimer's disease or significant cardiovascular issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients by targeting vascular health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing vascular health can positively impact cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients, suggesting that this approach may be promising.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's disease brain
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.