Exploring the link between gut bacteria and cognitive decline in Latinos
Microbiome Multi-Omics and Cognitive Decline in Latinos
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect brain health, especially for Puerto Ricans who are more likely to experience Alzheimer's disease, to help us understand how to keep our minds sharp as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Lowell NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lowell, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10661289 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the gut microbiome may influence cognitive decline, particularly in Puerto Ricans who are at a higher risk for Alzheimer's disease. By studying a large group of participants from the Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, the project aims to understand the relationship between gut health and brain function. The research will utilize advanced multi-omics techniques to analyze biological data and cognitive assessments over time, providing insights into how gut bacteria may affect cognitive health. This study is significant as it focuses on a minority population that has been underrepresented in similar research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Puerto Rican adults aged 21 and older who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not of Latino descent or those without risk factors for cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or mitigating cognitive decline in Latino populations.
How similar studies have performed: While research on the gut-brain connection is emerging, this specific focus on Puerto Ricans and cognitive decline is novel and has not been extensively studied before.
Where this research is happening
Lowell, United States
- University of Massachusetts Lowell — Lowell, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Palacios, Natalia — University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Study coordinator: Palacios, Natalia
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.