Understanding how small blood vessel problems in the brain lead to dementia
Lesions and loss of smooth muscle cells in brain underlies small vessel disease
This study is looking at how problems with tiny blood vessels in the brain can affect thinking and memory, especially in people with Alzheimer's, and aims to find ways to help prevent or treat dementia by understanding these issues better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10527075 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of small blood vessels in the brain and how their dysfunction can lead to cognitive impairment and dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. The team will explore the loss of smooth muscle cells in these vessels and how this loss contributes to conditions like ischemic strokes and intracerebral hemorrhages. By using advanced techniques, they aim to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes and their long-term effects on brain health. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia related to small vessel disease.
Not a fit: Patients with dementia not related to small vessel disease or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating dementia caused by small vessel disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between small vessel dysfunction and cognitive decline, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Burlington, United States
- University of Vermont & St Agric College — Burlington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nelson, Mark T — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Nelson, Mark T
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 below.