How COVID-19 and genetics affect cognitive decline and Alzheimer's risk in older adults
Interactions of SARS-CoV-2 infection and genetic variation on the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease in Ancestral and Admixed Populations
This study is looking at how getting COVID-19 and our genes might affect brain health and the risk of memory problems or Alzheimer's in older adults, especially those from diverse backgrounds, and it involves tests to track changes over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10907421 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus interacts with genetic variations to influence the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease in older adults, particularly from underrepresented minority groups. The study will involve large cohorts from the USA, Africa, and South America, focusing on individuals aged 65 and older. Participants will undergo neurological, cognitive, imaging, and blood tests at multiple time points to assess changes over time. The goal is to understand the combined effects of COVID-19 and genetics on brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 65 and above, particularly those from underrepresented minority backgrounds or with a history of COVID-19 infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have a history of COVID-19 infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease in vulnerable populations.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of viral infections on cognitive health, making this approach both relevant and timely.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Erausquin, Gabriel Alejandro — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: De Erausquin, Gabriel Alejandro
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.