How genes and infections shape brain aging
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['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-11180242
This project looks at how a person's genes and COVID-19 infection history might change brain aging and memory in older adults and other age groups.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11180242 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will combine genetic data, medical records, and brain-related tests from people of different ages to learn why some show worse cognitive problems after infections like COVID-19. They will analyze biological samples and health information to link specific genes and environmental exposures to short- and long-term brain changes. The work will include people with and without Alzheimer's-related dementia to compare outcomes. The project is coordinated by the University of Texas Health Science Center with collaborating sites contributing data and samples.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults or others with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, people with or at risk for Alzheimer's-related dementia, and anyone able to provide medical records and biological samples.
Not a fit: People who cannot access participating sites, decline to share medical records or samples, or who need immediate medical treatment for cognitive symptoms may not directly benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify who is most at risk for infection-related cognitive decline and help guide prevention or personalized treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown COVID-19 can affect cognition and that genetics influence dementia risk, but combining genetic epidemiology with infection-response measurements is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER — SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BLANGERO, JOHN — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER
- Study coordinator: BLANGERO, JOHN
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.