Understanding how chemotherapy affects brain blood vessels and cognition
Official title: Chemotherapy-induced vascular cognitive impairment: role of endothelial senescence
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10997435 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how chemotherapy might affect thinking and memory in cancer survivors by examining changes in brain blood vessels, and it's aimed at helping those who have experienced 'chemobrain' to find ways to improve their cognitive health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $331,688 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA255840-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997435 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are long-term cancer survivors who have experienced cognitive issues following chemotherapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not undergone chemotherapy or those with pre-existing cognitive impairments unrelated to cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of chemotherapy on cognitive function in cancer survivors, specifically focusing on how chemotherapy-induced damage to blood vessels in the brain may lead to cognitive impairment, often referred to as 'chemobrain.' The study aims to understand the role of endothelial cell senescence, which occurs when these cells age prematurely due to chemotherapy exposure. Using a specialized mouse model, researchers will explore how this cellular aging affects blood flow and brain function, with the goal of identifying potential strategies to prevent or reverse cognitive decline in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent or mitigate cognitive impairment in cancer survivors.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting endothelial senescence in relation to chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment is novel, there is growing evidence that addressing vascular health can improve cognitive outcomes in various populations.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Csiszar, Anna — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Csiszar, Anna
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding brain circuit issues in a mouse model of chemotherapy-related cognitive problems
This study is looking at how a specific gene might change brain function in mice that have memory problems after chemotherapy, with the goal of finding ways to help cancer patients who experience similar issues.
-
Understanding brain circuit issues in mice with chemotherapy-related cognitive problems
This study is looking at how chemotherapy might impact brain function, especially in areas important for memory, in mice that have a genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease, to help us understand why some cancer survivors may experience memory problems after treatment.
-
Investigating cognitive decline and aging effects from chemotherapy using baboons
This study is looking at how chemotherapy might affect thinking and brain aging in cancer patients, using baboons to help us understand these changes better, with the hope of finding ways to help people who experience these side effects.
-
Predicting cognitive impairment after chemotherapy in breast cancer patients
This study is looking at how chemotherapy might impact thinking and memory in women with breast cancer, and it aims to help predict who might have trouble with these skills after treatment, so they can get the support they need.
-
The role of APOE4 in cognitive impairment caused by cancer chemotherapy
This study is looking at how a specific gene, called APOE4, might affect memory and thinking skills in cancer patients who are getting chemotherapy, using mice to learn more about how treatment impacts the brain, with the hope of finding ways to help people keep their mental sharpness during and after treatment.
-
Improving Neurological Health with Brain Training for Mild Cognitive Impairment (INHANCE-MCI)
A computer-based brain training program is being tested to help people with mild cognitive impairment maintain thinking skills and daily functioning.
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.