Understanding how blood flow changes with brain activity in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Uncovering the physiological role of functional hyperemia
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11076242 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in blood flow in the brain affect brain activity, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, to help us understand more about how this condition impacts brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $406,205 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126920-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076242 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing cognitive decline associated with aging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia or neurological disorders unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between neuronal activity and blood flow in the brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. It aims to understand how blocking the increase in blood flow, known as functional hyperemia, affects brain function and metabolism. Using advanced techniques like optogenetics, researchers will explore the implications of altered blood flow on neuronal responses in both healthy and Alzheimer's-affected brains. This could provide insights into the mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases and their impact on brain health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving brain health and function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding blood flow dynamics in the brain, but this specific approach to blocking functional hyperemia is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'herron, Philip — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: O'herron, Philip
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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.