Understanding how aging affects oral health and its link to Alzheimer's disease
Disambiguating natural aging from Alzheimer's disease through changes in oral neuromechanics
This study looks at how problems with oral health might be connected to Alzheimer's disease by exploring changes in brain activity related to chewing and other mouth functions, helping us understand the differences between normal aging and the early signs of Alzheimer's, which could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat age-related memory issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10850775 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between oral health issues and Alzheimer's disease by examining changes in the brain's neuromechanical processes related to chewing and other oral functions. It focuses on understanding how these changes differ between healthy aging and the onset of Alzheimer's disease. By studying the neural activity in specific brain regions of old rhesus macaques, the research aims to identify patterns that could help distinguish between normal aging and pathological conditions. This could lead to better diagnostic tools and interventions for age-related dementias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing oral health issues or cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients with no oral health problems or those who are not experiencing cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and early detection of Alzheimer's disease through oral health assessments.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been some research on the link between oral health and cognitive decline, this specific approach focusing on neuromechanical processes is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arce-Mcshane, Fritzie Isip — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Arce-Mcshane, Fritzie Isip
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.