How exercise affects brain health in older adults with a history of depression
Biomolecular Mediators of Aerobic Exercise effects on Cognitive and Brain Health in Remitted Late-life Depression
['FUNDING_R03'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11056423
This study is looking at how aerobic exercise can help improve brain health and thinking skills in older adults who have dealt with late-life depression, with the hope of finding ways to boost their cognitive function without medication.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R03'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11056423 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of aerobic exercise on cognitive and brain health in older adults who have experienced late-life depression. It aims to understand how exercise can potentially reverse neurobiological changes associated with depression that increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By identifying specific biomolecular targets in the blood that mediate the benefits of exercise, the study seeks to provide insights into non-drug interventions that could improve cognitive function in this vulnerable population. Participants may engage in structured exercise programs while their cognitive health and biological markers are monitored.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have remitted late-life depression and are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients who are currently experiencing severe depression or other significant psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective non-pharmacological interventions that improve cognitive health and reduce the risk of dementia in older adults with a history of depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that exercise can have positive effects on cognitive health in older adults, suggesting that this approach may be promising for those with a history of depression.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GUJRAL, SWATHI — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: GUJRAL, SWATHI
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.