Exploring how nicotine can improve cognitive control in older adults with depression
Nicotinic Modulation of the Cognitive Control System in Late-Life Depression
This study is looking at how nicotine patches might help improve thinking and mood in older adults who are dealing with depression by boosting brain activity during certain tasks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10984477 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of nicotine acetylcholine receptor agonists on cognitive control in older adults suffering from depression. It aims to enhance the function of the cognitive control network, which is often impaired in late-life depression, leading to difficulties in emotional regulation and cognitive tasks. The study will first assess whether transdermal nicotine can increase neural activity in the cognitive control network during specific tasks, followed by a randomized controlled trial to evaluate its clinical effects on mood and cognitive performance. Participants will engage in tasks designed to measure their cognitive responses while using nicotine patches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing late-life depression with cognitive control deficits.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing cognitive control issues or who do not have late-life depression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that improve both mood and cognitive function in older adults with depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with nicotine in enhancing cognitive function, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Warren D — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Warren D
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.