Understanding how pericytes affect blood flow in a mouse model of CADASIL
Official title: Contractile Pericyte-Mediated Cerebrovascular Deficits in a Mouse Model of CADASIL
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10995411 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the brain, called pericytes, help control blood flow and how problems with these cells might affect people with CADASIL, a genetic condition that can cause issues with blood vessels and thinking. The researchers hope to learn more about these cells to find new ways to help improve blood flow for those affected by this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $43,514 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS139505-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995411 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with CADASIL or those who exhibit symptoms of vascular cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of vascular diseases unrelated to CADASIL may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of contractile pericytes in regulating blood flow in the brain, specifically in a mouse model of CADASIL, a genetic condition that leads to small vessel disease and cognitive impairment. The study focuses on how these pericytes interact with other vascular cells and how their dysfunction may contribute to cerebrovascular deficits. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which pericytes control blood flow and how this may be altered in CADASIL. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving blood flow in affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve blood flow and cognitive function in patients with CADASIL.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of pericytes in other vascular conditions has been studied, this specific investigation into their function in CADASIL is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vigderman, Abigail Shira — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Vigderman, Abigail Shira
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.