Understanding blood flow issues in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's Disease
Official title: Characterizing microvascular impairment in adults with elevated genetic risk for Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11047981 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene, called APOE-ε4, might affect blood flow in the brains of older adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's Disease, to better understand how these changes can impact thinking and memory.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $831,583 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG086263-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047981 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who carry the APOE-ε4 allele and are at elevated risk for Alzheimer's Disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not carry the APOE-ε4 allele or are under the age of 65 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic factors, specifically the APOE-ε4 allele, contribute to blood flow problems in the brains of older adults who may develop Alzheimer's Disease. By examining the relationship between microvascular health and cognitive decline, the study aims to uncover the physiological mechanisms that lead to reduced oxygen availability in the brain. Participants will undergo assessments to measure cerebral blood flow and oxygen extraction efficiency, helping to clarify how these factors impact brain health in those at genetic risk for Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for preventing or mitigating cognitive decline in individuals at risk for Alzheimer's Disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between vascular health and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Juttukonda, Meher R — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Juttukonda, Meher R
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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.