Bacterial pneumonia in ICU patients affects brain function.

Nosocomial pneumonias impair cognitive function

NIH-funded research University of South Alabama · NIH-10915399

This study is looking at how getting bacterial pneumonia while in intensive care might affect your thinking and memory later on, and it’s for patients who have survived that experience.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Alabama NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Mobile, United States)
Project IDNIH-10915399 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how bacterial pneumonia acquired in intensive care units can lead to long-term cognitive impairment in patients. It focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind this cognitive decline, particularly the role of cytotoxic amyloids found in the cerebrospinal fluid of affected patients. By analyzing brain tissue responses to these substances, the study aims to uncover the links between pneumonia, brain health, and cognitive function. Patients who have survived intensive care treatment will be monitored to assess their cognitive outcomes over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have been treated in intensive care units and have experienced bacterial pneumonia during their stay.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been hospitalized in intensive care units or who have not contracted bacterial pneumonia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cognitive decline in ICU patients who develop pneumonia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a correlation between ICU-related infections and cognitive impairment, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.

Where this research is happening

Mobile, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.