Exploring how gut bacteria and flavonoids can support brain health in aging adults
Official title: MAEVE: Microbiota mediated flavonoid metabolites for cognitive health
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10881057 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how eating a Mediterranean diet full of healthy foods might help older adults, especially those at risk for Alzheimer's, keep their brains healthy by changing the bacteria in their gut. If you join, you might try some new foods and share how they affect your thinking and gut health!
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,563,756 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG081768-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10881057 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for cognitive decline or those with advanced Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between dietary flavonoids, gut microbiota, and cognitive health in older adults, particularly those at risk for Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on how a Mediterranean diet rich in polyphenols may help preserve brain function and structure by influencing gut bacteria and their metabolites. The study aims to understand the mechanisms through which these dietary components can potentially delay cognitive decline and improve overall brain health. Participants may be asked to modify their diets and undergo assessments to evaluate changes in cognitive function and gut microbiome composition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that help prevent or slow cognitive decline in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using dietary interventions to support cognitive health, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Church, Arpana — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Church, Arpana
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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.