Exploring gut bacteria treatments for Alzheimer's patients after brain injuries.
Official title: Microbiota-targeted approaches to resolve dysbiosis-induced AD neuropathology following brain injury.
Funded at Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NIH-10929519 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special treatments for gut health might help people with Alzheimer's who have also had brain injuries, by exploring how the bacteria in our gut can affect brain health and memory.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Methodist Hospital Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $611,829 |
| NIH project number | 5R56AG080920-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929519 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are elderly individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who have also suffered a traumatic brain injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Alzheimer's disease who have not experienced any form of brain injury may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how targeted therapies aimed at the gut microbiome can help Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients who have experienced traumatic brain injuries. It focuses on understanding the connection between gut health and brain function, particularly how changes in gut bacteria can influence neuroinflammation and cognitive decline. By developing precision-microbiota therapies, the research aims to improve recovery and overall brain health in this vulnerable population. The approach involves studying AD models to assess the impact of gut microbiota on behavior and neurodegeneration following brain trauma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that enhance recovery and cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients after brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using microbiota-targeted therapies for neurological conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Methodist Hospital Research Institute
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Villapol, Sonia — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Villapol, Sonia
Related research
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-
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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.