The role of adiponectin in brain blood flow and cognitive function in dementia.

Adiponectin on cerebrovascular regulation in vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID)

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11004042

This study is looking at how a protein called adiponectin, made by fat cells, influences blood flow and thinking skills in people with memory problems related to blood vessel issues, and it aims to see if a special treatment can help improve brain health and memory.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11004042 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how adiponectin, a protein produced by fat cells, affects blood flow in the brain and cognitive function in patients with vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). The study uses a mouse model to explore the relationship between adiponectin levels and cognitive deficits caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. By administering a small-molecule treatment that activates adiponectin receptors, researchers aim to understand how enhancing this pathway can improve cognitive outcomes and brain health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing cognitive decline associated with vascular issues.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairment not related to vascular issues or those with other types of dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and quality of life for patients with vascular cognitive impairment and dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing cognitive function through metabolic regulation, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Affective Disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.