Understanding how brain activity affects blood flow in Alzheimer's disease
Neural circuit basis for neurovascular coupling
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10994602
This study is looking at how certain brain cells that help control blood flow are connected to brain activity in people with Alzheimer's disease, using special imaging techniques in awake mice to learn more about how this process works and how it might be affected in Alzheimer's and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10994602 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between neural activity and blood flow in the brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. By studying specific neurons that produce nitric oxide, which helps regulate blood vessel dilation, the researchers aim to understand how these neurons influence blood flow during brain activity. The approach includes advanced imaging techniques and experiments in awake mice to observe the relationship between these neurons and blood vessels. The findings could provide insights into how disruptions in this process contribute to Alzheimer's and other cerebrovascular diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related neurovascular conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neurovascular coupling or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving blood flow in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease, potentially alleviating some symptoms or slowing disease progression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neurovascular coupling, but this specific approach using Tacr1 neurons is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ROSS, SARAH ELIZABETH — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: ROSS, SARAH ELIZABETH
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease