How infections may contribute to Alzheimer's disease

Infection-driven mechanisms associated with Alzheimer's disease pathology

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11079662

This study is looking into how infections might play a role in causing Alzheimer's disease, focusing on how they can affect the brain and lead to memory problems, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about the links between infections and Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11079662 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential link between infections and the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). It aims to understand how infections can activate the immune system, increase blood-brain barrier permeability, and lead to the accumulation of harmful proteins in the brain. By studying animal models and human samples, the researchers will explore the effects of infections like sepsis and meningitis on cognitive decline and brain inflammation. The goal is to uncover the molecular mechanisms that connect infections to AD pathology.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of infections and cognitive decline, particularly those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of infections or cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting infection-related pathways.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has suggested a connection between infections and cognitive decline, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 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.