Understanding tiny blood vessel changes in the brain that affect memory and thinking
Elucidating microvascular contributions to cognitive impairment at single-cell resolution
This work aims to uncover how small blood vessel problems in the brain contribute to memory and thinking difficulties, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | J. David Gladstone Institutes NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862661 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Dementia affects millions globally, and a significant portion is linked to issues with the brain's small blood vessels, known as cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). This research uses a new technique called VINE-seq to look closely at individual brain cells from donated human brains. By studying these cells, we hope to understand the specific changes in tiny blood vessels that lead to problems with memory and thinking. This deeper understanding could help us find new ways to protect brain health and develop treatments for dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work on donated human brain tissue is for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, as it seeks to understand the root causes of their conditions.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing cognitive impairment or those with dementia caused by factors unrelated to small vessel disease may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for treatments that prevent or slow down cognitive decline caused by small vessel disease and Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have performed: While single-nucleus sequencing has advanced our understanding of neurological diseases, this project introduces a novel technique, VINE-seq, to specifically capture and analyze human brain vascular cells, addressing a previous gap in the field.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- J. David Gladstone Institutes — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Andrew Chris — J. David Gladstone Institutes
- Study coordinator: Yang, Andrew Chris
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.