Understanding and fixing changes in the brain's blood barrier related to Alzheimer's disease

Identifying and Correcting Dementia-Associated Changes in the Blood-Brain Barrier

NIH-funded research Harvard University · NIH-10611807

This study is looking at how changes in the brain's protective barrier might contribute to Alzheimer's disease, and it's trying to find ways to fix those changes to help keep the brain healthy, especially for older adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHarvard University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project IDNIH-10611807 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the role of the brain's blood-brain barrier in Alzheimer's disease and aims to identify and correct changes that occur in the cells that make up this barrier. By studying various cell types involved in brain vasculature, the research seeks to restore the integrity of these cells, which is crucial for maintaining brain health. The approach involves both identifying the specific processes affected by Alzheimer's and developing strategies to improve brain vascular health, particularly in aging populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those experiencing age-related cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those without any cognitive impairment may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore brain function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in restoring brain vasculature in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, 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 1 ProteinAlzheimer Disease Protease Nexin-IIAlzheimer disease dementia
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.