Our research dives into Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD), aiming to unravel the complex connections between the immune system, blood vessels, and brain health. Our primary goals include understanding how immune responses contribute to-and are influenced by-changes in the brain, cognition, and the risk of developing AD/ADRD over time. Alzheimer’s research has thus far been heavily focused on the amyloid beta hypothesis, but researchers have recently begun widening the scope to also consider heart health, chronic inflammation, and genetic factors related to the immune system. Genetic studies reveal that many of the specific genes that significantly shape how our immune cells function are also associated with Alzheimer’s disease. As we age, both our immune system and certain blood components undergo changes, and our initial findings suggest their involvement in AD/ADRD development. Our research project will span approximately three years, during which we will conduct various tests and analyses to untangle the intricate links between the immune system, blood components, heart health, and the brain in the context of AD/ADRD. This project is hugely important since AD/ADRD affects over 55 million people globally, and this number is expected to escalate significantly in the coming years due to the aging of the population. Our research isn’t just about understanding these conditions; it’s about finding ways to prevent or slow them down. Moreover, our discoveries might pave the way for new treatments in the future that enhance the immune system’s defense against AD/ADRD, leading to a significant positive impact on public health.
