Shingles for Vascular Dementia Risk
(R01 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether individuals with shingles (herpes zoster) face a higher risk of blood vessel problems and mental decline compared to those without shingles. Participants will join either a group with untreated shingles, visiting the clinic multiple times over a year, or a control group with a single clinic visit. The trial involves no new medications or devices, only regular care and observations. Individuals with a current shingles rash who have not taken antiviral treatment and can commit to several follow-up visits may be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding the broader impacts of shingles on health.
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard treatments for vascular dementia, which typically focus on managing symptoms like memory loss and confusion, this study is exploring how pathogenic exosomes linked to herpes zoster might increase the risk of developing the condition. Researchers are excited because understanding these tiny vesicles could reveal a completely new mechanism of disease progression, offering insights into how vascular dementia develops at a molecular level. This could eventually lead to innovative treatments that target the root cause rather than just alleviating symptoms, potentially altering the disease course and improving outcomes for patients.
Who Is on the Research Team?
Project Director
Principal Investigator
University of Colorado, Denver
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Observation
Participants are evaluated for exosome content and vascular risk factors over a 12-month period
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for long-term vascular and cognitive outcomes
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Center for Clinical Studies, Texas
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator
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