How genetics influence the benefits of a specific diet for brain health

Genetic modifiers of the Mediterranean-DASH diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) response

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10853102

This study is looking at how your genes might influence how well you respond to the MIND diet, which is meant to help slow down memory loss and lower the risk of Alzheimer's, and we're inviting people to join in by sharing their diet habits and getting some genetic testing done.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10853102 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how genetic differences affect individual responses to the Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND), which is designed to slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. By analyzing genetic information alongside dietary adherence, the study aims to identify which individuals may benefit the most from this diet. The approach combines data from an ongoing MIND trial with existing community and population-based data to explore the interplay between genetics and diet. Patients may be asked to participate in dietary assessments and genetic testing to help determine their potential response to the MIND diet.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing cognitive decline who are interested in dietary interventions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have genetic predispositions related to Alzheimer's disease or who are not interested in dietary changes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help identify specific dietary recommendations tailored to individuals based on their genetic makeup, potentially improving cognitive health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in dietary interventions for cognitive health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.