Observational Study on Herpes Zoster and Vascular Dementia Risk
This observational study is looking into whether people who have had herpes zoster (shingles) might have a higher risk of developing vascular dysfunction (problems with blood vessels, including stroke) and vascular dementia (memory and thinking problems caused by reduced blood flow to the brain). Researchers will collect data and biospecimens (like blood or tissue samples) from participants to analyze tiny particles called exosomes. They will look for specific proteins and microRNAs within these exosomes that are known to damage blood vessels. The study aims to compare these findings between individuals with and without herpes zoster over a 12-month period. You may be eligible if you are 18 years or older and are presenting to a clinic for a routine dermatologic evaluation, with or without a rash.
- Study design
- This is an observational study planning to enroll 375 participants. Participants are assigned to groups based on whether they have herpes zoster.
- What's involved
- If you are in the Herpes Zoster group, you would have 6 visits over 12 months, starting from the day you present with acute zoster.
- Compensation
- Not stated in the trial record.
- Follow-up
- The study will analyze exosome content over a 12-month period, occurring in a cyclical and overlapping manner throughout a 5-year proposal period.
AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.
A Study That Collects Participant Data and Biospecimens to Analyze Pathogenic Exosomes That Mediate Increased Vascular Dementia Risk in Individuals With Herpes Zoster.
At a glance
Conditions
Where it's being run
2 sites across 1 statesStudy leadership
- Project Director · STUDY_DIRECTOR · University of Colorado, Denver
Who to contact
Opens a ready-to-send draft in your own email app — review before sending.
What this trial measures
- Analyze exosome content for known vascular damaging proteins/miRNAs from matched control and HZ individuals over a 12-month period.From enrollment throughout the 5-year proposal period, occurring in a cyclical and overlapping manner.
Using mass spectrometry and small RNA sequencing, we will quantify abundance and temporal changes of exosomal proteins and miRNAs associated with vascular dysfunction, inflammation, coagulation, and stroke, then correlate analytes with clinical and laboratory features (anti-VZV IgG titers and IgM, complete blood counts, comprehensive metabolic panel, and aPTT/PT/INR). Enrichment analyses will be conducted on the network of exosomal proteins and miRNAs to uncover pathways and shared analytes associated with HZ, vascular dysfunction, and neurodegenerative processes.