Effects of gut bacteria on brain health after traumatic injury
Impact of microbiota-derived metabolites on traumatic brain injury-related neurodegeneration
This study is looking at how changes in gut bacteria after a traumatic brain injury might affect thinking and memory over time, and it hopes to find ways to help improve brain health by boosting the good bacteria that support brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11034043 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in gut bacteria after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) may contribute to long-term cognitive decline. It focuses on the role of beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids, particularly acetate, which are important for brain and immune function. By analyzing the gut microbiome of TBI patients and animal models, the study aims to understand how restoring these bacteria or their metabolites could potentially reverse negative effects on brain health. This collaborative effort involves leading research centers specializing in TBI and microbiome studies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have experienced a traumatic brain injury.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or those with pre-existing severe gastrointestinal disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and overall brain health in individuals who have suffered a traumatic brain injury.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain connection, suggesting that similar approaches may yield beneficial outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Simon, Dennis William — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Simon, Dennis William
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.