How Alzheimer's disease affects gut health and movement
Altered ENS Neuroimmune Interactions Disrupt Gastrointestinal Motility in Alzheimers Disease
This study looks at how problems in the gut, like constipation, might be linked to Alzheimer's disease, hoping to find out how changes in the gut can affect brain health in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Palo Alto, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11090490 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between Alzheimer's disease and gastrointestinal disorders, such as constipation and fecal incontinence, which are common in both Alzheimer's patients and the elderly. It explores how amyloid-β plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's, accumulate in the enteric nervous system, leading to inflammation and impaired gut function. By studying the interactions between the immune system and the gut, the research aims to understand the underlying mechanisms that disrupt gastrointestinal motility in Alzheimer's patients. The findings could provide insights into how gut health impacts cognitive function in aging populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients without Alzheimer's disease or significant gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for gastrointestinal issues in Alzheimer's patients, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between gut health and neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Palo Alto, United States
- Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research — Palo Alto, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Becker, Laren — Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research
- Study coordinator: Becker, Laren
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.