Using deep learning to find brain blood vessel issues in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: CRCNS: Deep Learning to Discover Neurovascular Disruptions in Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11161499 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in tiny brain cells might play a role in Alzheimer's disease, using advanced technology to find important details that are usually missed, and it aims to help us better understand how these cells interact to keep the brain healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $289,769 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG085900-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11161499 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those exhibiting early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how disruptions in the neurovascular unit (NVU) contribute to Alzheimer's disease. By employing advanced deep learning techniques, the study aims to analyze molecular changes in brain cells that are often overlooked using traditional methods. The research will utilize single-cell RNA sequencing to identify specific gene expression patterns in low-abundant cells, such as endothelial cells and pericytes, which are crucial for maintaining brain health. This approach seeks to enhance our understanding of the cellular interactions that are impaired in Alzheimer's, potentially leading to new insights into the disease's progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging and molecular techniques to study neurovascular disruptions, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kandimalla, Karunya Kumar — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Kandimalla, Karunya Kumar
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Interpretable deep learning to map genetics and epigenetics of Alzheimer's at single-cell level
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Deep learning to uncover neurovascular disruptions in Alzheimer's disease
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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.