Understanding how tiny brain cells control blood flow in Alzheimer's disease
A pericyte Cl- clamp controls capillary electrical signaling and brain blood flow
This research explores how specialized cells in the brain's smallest blood vessels help regulate blood flow, which is often disrupted in Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143119 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains need a constant supply of energy from the blood to function properly, and problems with brain blood flow are an early sign of Alzheimer's disease. This project looks at tiny cells called pericytes, found on brain capillaries, to understand their role in controlling blood flow. We are discovering a new way these pericytes use electrical signals to manage blood delivery throughout the brain's vascular network. By understanding these mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to protect brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in the future.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for treatments that improve brain blood flow and potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: This project proposes a novel mechanism for pericyte control of brain blood flow, building on existing knowledge but introducing a new dimension to this understanding.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Longden, Thomas a — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Longden, Thomas a
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.