Understanding the brain's protective network in aging and Alzheimer's disease

Mapping the perivascular reticular network in health, aging, and AD

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10739104

This study is looking at a part of the brain that helps with fluid movement and may affect brain health as we get older, especially in people with Alzheimer's, to better understand how changes in a protective brain layer could impact our resilience against such diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10739104 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the perivascular space (PVS) in the brain, which plays a crucial role in fluid exchange and may influence brain health as we age. By using advanced microscopy techniques, the study aims to map the structure of the pia mater, a protective layer surrounding the brain, and how it changes with aging and in Alzheimer's disease. The research will analyze human brain tissue to identify specific morphological changes and their relationship to neurological conditions. This could lead to a better understanding of how the brain maintains resilience against diseases like Alzheimer's.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to aging or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of Alzheimer's disease and potentially lead to new strategies for prevention or treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain structures related to Alzheimer's, but this specific approach to mapping the pia mater is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.