Understanding how brain cells support blood vessel health in Alzheimer's disease
Pericyte structural plasticity and cerebrovascular health
This study is looking at how special cells in the brain called pericytes help keep blood vessels healthy and how their loss might affect people with Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding ways to protect brain health for those living with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11045831 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of pericytes, specialized cells that support blood vessels in the brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. It aims to understand how these cells communicate with blood vessel cells and how their loss affects blood flow and the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers will observe how pericytes can repair themselves and maintain their function in a living brain. This could lead to new insights into preserving brain health in patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Alzheimer's or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance cerebrovascular health and potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of pericytes in brain health, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Seattle Children's Hospital — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shih, Andy Y — Seattle Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Shih, Andy Y
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.