VCID: Conduct basic research informed by findings from human studies (Milestone 4.T)

In Progress

Timeline Start - End

2020 - 2026

Research Implementation Area

Translational Tools, Infrastructure, and Capabilities

AD-Related Dementias Focus

Validate hypothesized mechanisms of VCID in large-scale, including community-based diverse, human studies leveraging existing and in-process biospecimens, genomics, and imaging data.

Success Criteria

At least one new VCID human data science model systems platform that leverages data, resources, and results from human VCID clinical research and clinical trials.
At least one new VCID study using human data science/systems approach that leverages data, resources, and results from, and also tests hypotheses from, human VCID clinical research and clinical trials.

Summary of Key Accomplishments

A large body of clinical studies, including the SPRINT-MIND randomized control clinical trial in 2019, demonstrate that controlling blood pressure in midlife decreases one's risk of cognitive decline and dementia. To better understand this direct link between blood pressure, brain and vascular health, and dementia, NIH supports several basic research studies in animal models that allow scientists to study this link at the molecular level and test hypotheses about how to reduce hypertension-related vascular damage that can lead to cognitive impairment. For example, a recent NINDS-funded study in rats showed that hypertension led to accumulation of the AD-related protein beta-amyloid coupled with deficits in the brain pathways, known as perivascular “glymphatic pathways,” that help clear waste (like beta-amyloid aggregates) from brain cells.

The key accomplishments summary is current as of July 2022.

Accomplishments/Implementation Activities

Funding Initiatives

Research Programs and Resources

Research Highlights

Workshop: Gaps and Opportunities for Real-World Data: Stakeholder Workshop