How midlife obesity and prediabetes affect brain health in older adults
Official title: Midlife obesity and prediabetes trigger later life cognitive decline through central nervous system inflammaging and innate immune dysregulation of cGAS/STING
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-11176336 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being overweight and having prediabetes in middle age might affect thinking and memory as we get older, especially by exploring how inflammation in the brain could play a role, and it aims to find ways to help prevent or slow down cognitive decline for older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $244,019 |
| NIH project number | 5R00AG071667-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11176336 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are middle-aged adults experiencing obesity or prediabetes who are concerned about their cognitive health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obesity or prediabetes, or those who are already diagnosed with advanced cognitive impairment, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between midlife obesity, prediabetes, and cognitive decline in older adults, particularly focusing on how inflammation in the brain may be triggered by these conditions. The study aims to understand the biological mechanisms, specifically the cGAS/STING pathway, that contribute to cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's Disease. By examining these relationships, the research seeks to identify potential early interventions that could prevent or mitigate cognitive decline. Patients may be involved in assessments that help clarify these links and contribute to future treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cognitive decline and Alzheimer's Disease in individuals with obesity and prediabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between metabolic dysfunction and cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elzinga, Sarah — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Elzinga, Sarah
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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.