How cognition affects immune responses and recovery after surgery in older adults
Cognition and the immunology of postoperative outcomes
This study is looking at how thinking skills and the immune system work together in older adults who are having surgery, to see if problems with thinking before surgery can lead to more complications and longer recovery times, with the goal of finding ways to help older patients recover better after their operations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10681332 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between cognitive function and immune responses in older adults undergoing surgery. It aims to understand how poor preoperative cognition may lead to increased complications and longer recovery times due to dysregulated inflammation. By examining the immune responses of older patients before and after surgery, the study seeks to identify potential mechanisms that contribute to adverse postoperative outcomes. The findings could help improve surgical care and recovery strategies for older patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above, who are scheduled for elective surgery.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 years old or those not undergoing surgery may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management of surgical risks and improved recovery outcomes for older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between cognitive impairment and poor surgical outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Culley, Deborah J — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Culley, Deborah J
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.