Understanding small vessel disease and its role in Alzheimer's and related dementias

VCID Center Without Walls for Understanding and Leveraging Small Vessel Cerebrovascular Disease Mechanisms in ADRD

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11022118

This study is looking into how small blood vessel problems in the brain can lead to dementia, like Alzheimer's, by examining brain samples and using advanced imaging techniques to better understand the changes that happen as we age.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11022118 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind small vessel cerebrovascular disease (CSVD) and its contributions to dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. By utilizing advanced technologies, the study aims to analyze thousands of proteins and metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid and human brain tissue samples. The research will also employ neuroimaging techniques to identify specific patterns of white matter hyperintensities, which are crucial for understanding the pathology of these diseases. The goal is to uncover the complex interactions that lead to cognitive decline in aging populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those with symptoms of cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cerebrovascular related forms of dementia or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential new treatments for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cerebrovascular contributions to dementia, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's disease and related dementiaAlzheimer's disease and related disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.