Understanding how placental growth factor affects brain health in diffuse white matter disease
Official title: Elucidating the role of placental growth factor in diffuse white matter disease
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10841490 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called placental growth factor (PlGF) affects brain health in people with diffuse white matter disease, which can lead to memory problems and dementia, to find new ways to help improve thinking skills as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $601,832 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS116990-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10841490 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive impairment or dementia associated with diffuse white matter disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive issues not related to diffuse white matter disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of placental growth factor (PlGF) in diffuse white matter disease, a condition linked to cognitive decline and dementia. By studying both human data and mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover how PlGF contributes to abnormal blood vessel growth in the brain, which can lead to issues like blood-brain barrier leakage and tissue damage. The study will explore the specific cell types involved, the locations of PlGF expression, and the reasons for its increased levels in this disease. This comprehensive approach could reveal new insights into potential treatments for improving cognitive function in aging individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve cognitive health in patients with diffuse white matter disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of angiogenic factors in brain diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilcock, Donna M — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Wilcock, Donna M
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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.