Understanding Brain Cell Connections in Dementia
Project 1 - Astrocytic end-feet and VCID
This research explores how tiny connections in the brain's blood vessels might contribute to memory and thinking problems, including those related to Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126084 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains rely on healthy connections between blood vessels and brain cells called astrocytes, which have 'end-feet' that help manage water and nutrients. We've noticed that in conditions affecting small blood vessels in the brain, these end-feet can break down, potentially leading to problems with brain function and dementia. This project aims to understand if a specific enzyme, MMP9, causes this breakdown and how it affects the brain's ability to function properly. By studying these processes, we hope to uncover new ways to protect brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to help individuals experiencing or at risk for vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia, including those with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients without conditions related to vascular cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that protect brain cells and blood vessels, potentially slowing or preventing cognitive decline in people with vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of astrocytic end-feet in dementia is an active area of investigation, this specific focus on MMP9's role in their degeneration represents a novel approach to understanding vascular cognitive impairment.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilcock, Donna M — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Wilcock, Donna M
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 below.