Understanding how brain structure changes with age in monkeys
Official title: Connecting across Scales: Integration of Cell-Specific Microstructure within Long-Range Brain Networks in the Macaque Monkey
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10988482 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the brain's structure as we age are linked to tiny cells in the brain, using advanced imaging techniques on rhesus macaques to help us understand more about age-related memory issues and potentially find new ways to track these changes in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $689,525 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG083539-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10988482 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research are older adults, particularly those aged 65 and over, who may experience cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under 21 years old or those without age-related cognitive issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how structural changes in the brain's networks are influenced by cellular microstructure, particularly in aging. By using advanced imaging techniques like in vivo MRI, the study aims to identify specific cellular signatures that vary among individuals. The goal is to create a detailed map of brain networks and their cellular components, which could lead to better understanding of age-related cognitive decline and the development of biomarkers for clinical use. The research focuses on rhesus macaques to provide insights that may be applicable to human aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for age-related cognitive decline in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using imaging techniques to study brain structure and aging, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raven, Erika Pratt — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Raven, Erika Pratt
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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.