Principal Investigators


Rylett, Jane R

Institution


University of Western Ontario

Contact information of lead PI


Country


Canada

Title of project or programme


Effects of Oxidative / Nitrosative Stress and Aging on Cholinergic Neuron Function

Source of funding information


CIHR

Total sum awarded (Euro)


€ 405,262

Start date of award


01/10/2011

Total duration of award in years


5

Keywords


Research Abstract


The proposed studies investigate changes that occur in nerve cells due to chemical alterations in the aging brain caused by neurodegeneration, hypertension, blood vessel disease that leads to decreased oxygen and blood flow, or due to stroke. A consequence of these pathological changes is inability of nerve cells to effectively communicate information to fulfill their physiological functions. Cholinergic nerves in brain are particularly susceptible to damage by these pathological conditions, and dysfunction of these nerves can lead to memory loss, dementia, changes in control of blood vessels and blood flow. This could arise if cholinergic neurons are vulnerable to changes in the brain microenvironment that are increased during aging. To illustrate this, amyloid peptide levels increase before cognitive deficits begin and are likely responsible for at least some of the oxidative stress that occurs very early in mild cognitive impariment or in AD.

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