Understanding how chemotherapy affects brain blood vessels and cognition

Chemotherapy-induced vascular cognitive impairment: role of endothelial senescence

NIH-funded research University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10997435

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997435 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are long-term cancer survivors who have experienced cognitive issues following chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone chemotherapy or those with pre-existing cognitive impairments unrelated to cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Oklahoma City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions anti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.