Understanding how gene regulation affects brain cell recovery in vascular dementia
Official title: Epigenetic Regulation of Oligodendrocyte Regeneration in Subcortical Ischemic Vascular Dementia
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10509535 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in our genes might help brain cells called oligodendrocytes heal and grow back, which could be really helpful for people with subcortical ischemic vascular dementia, a condition that affects thinking and memory.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $462,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS128310-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10509535 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with subcortical ischemic vascular dementia who are experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to vascular issues or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of epigenetic regulation in the regeneration of oligodendrocytes, which are crucial for brain health, particularly in patients suffering from subcortical ischemic vascular dementia (SIVD). The study aims to uncover how changes in gene expression influence the ability of oligodendrocyte precursor cells to differentiate and repair white matter damage caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. By exploring these cellular and molecular mechanisms, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving cognitive function in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance brain cell recovery and improve cognitive function in patients with vascular dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of epigenetic mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arai, Ken — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Arai, Ken
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
A brain-boosting peptide to help people at risk of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
A new drug-like peptide (PNA5) is being studied to reduce brain inflammation and improve blood flow in people at risk for vascular dementia and Alzheimer's-related dementia.
-
Cis-proline tau toxicity in brain injury and dementia
Aims to understand how a specific toxic form of tau protein appears after brain injury and contributes to Alzheimer’s-related dementia, and how early intervention might protect neurons.
-
Pathogenic exosomes in shingles and their link to vascular dementia
A study explores how tiny particles shed during shingles may raise the risk of vascular dementia in people, with potential to inform prevention.
-
Artery cell channels and stroke-related dementia in older men and women
This work looks at whether blocking an artery-cell channel called Panx1 can help older men and women have less brain damage and dementia after an ischemic stroke.
-
How blood vessel problems contribute to dementia
Researchers are looking at how blood vessel problems in the heart and brain may lead to dementia in people with or at risk for Alzheimer’s.
-
Scale-up of a peptide therapy to help brain blood flow and inflammation in people at risk for Alzheimer’s-related dementias
A small US-based project will scale up manufacturing of a new peptide medicine (PNA5) intended to help people at risk for Alzheimer’s-related dementia and vascular dementia by improving brain blood flow and reducing inflammation.
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.