Understanding Physical Activity and Alzheimer's in Down Syndrome
Assessment of Physical Activity for Alzheimer's Disease Research in Down Syndrome
This project is looking at how physical activity levels relate to Alzheimer's disease in adults with Down syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11110354 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Adults with Down syndrome often develop Alzheimer's disease much earlier than others, possibly due to early changes in brain proteins. We know that in the general population, being less active might increase the risk of Alzheimer's. However, the tools we use to measure physical activity might not be accurate for people with Down syndrome because of their unique physical differences. This project aims to find better ways to measure physical activity in adults with Down syndrome to understand its connection to Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be adults with Down syndrome who are interested in understanding their physical activity levels and brain health.
Not a fit: Patients who are not adults with Down syndrome or those not interested in physical activity measurement may not directly benefit from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us understand how physical activity influences Alzheimer's disease in adults with Down syndrome, potentially leading to new ways to support brain health.
How similar studies have performed: While physical activity is known to benefit brain health in the general population, this project is novel in its focus on validating objective measurement tools specifically for adults with Down syndrome.
Where this research is happening
Kansas City, United States
- University of Kansas Medical Center — Kansas City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Helsel, Brian — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Helsel, Brian
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.