How brain injuries affect gut health and lead to Alzheimer's disease
Bidirectional Brain-Gut interactions, chronic neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration after traumatic brain injury
This study is looking at how a traumatic brain injury might lead to Alzheimer's disease by affecting both the brain and the gut, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these health issues are connected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10928225 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the development of Alzheimer's disease through chronic neuroinflammation and gastrointestinal issues. It explores how damage to the brain can lead to problems in the gut, which may further exacerbate neurological decline. By studying the interactions between the brain and the gastrointestinal system, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to cognitive dysfunction after TBI. The approach includes using animal models to observe changes in gut health and brain function following injury.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury and are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or do not have any 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 treating Alzheimer's disease in patients with a history of traumatic brain injury.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between brain injuries and neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Faden, Alan Ira — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Faden, Alan Ira
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.