Understanding gene control in vascular dementia
Enhancer RNAs and enhancer-centric gene regulatory networks in vascular dementia
This project looks at how special genetic signals called enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) might contribute to vascular dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171349 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have special genetic signals called enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) that help control how our genes work, especially during disease. We are exploring how these eRNAs are involved in vascular dementia, a condition affecting memory and thinking due to blood flow issues in the brain. We previously found eRNAs linked to brain damage after a stroke in mice, and now we want to find specific eRNAs that appear as vascular dementia develops. To do this, we will use advanced genetic mapping techniques in a mouse model that mimics the brain changes seen in vascular dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to help those with vascular dementia or related cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments will not directly benefit from this early-stage basic science.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these eRNAs could lead to new ways to diagnose or treat vascular dementia.
How similar studies have performed: This team has previously identified eRNAs linked to brain injury in mice, making this a novel but building upon prior work in the field.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dharap, Ashutosh — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Dharap, Ashutosh
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.