How gut bacteria influence aging and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: The role of microbiota in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10875763 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect the progression of Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find out if changing these gut bacteria could help improve the condition for people living with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $794,844 |
| NIH project number | 4R01AG065270-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875763 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between gut microbiota and Alzheimer's disease (AD), focusing on how specific gut bacteria may influence the disease's progression. The study aims to identify mechanisms by which gut microbes affect AD pathology, including their role in processing amyloid precursor protein (APP) and modulating immune responses. By analyzing the gut microbiome of individuals with AD, researchers will explore potential microbial treatments that could alter disease outcomes. Patients may be involved in providing samples or participating in interventions aimed at understanding these relationships.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that modify gut bacteria to slow or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weiner, Howard L — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Weiner, Howard L
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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.