Improving brain health in older adults at risk for dementia through better delivery of omega-3 fatty acids.
Official title: Optimizing CNS DHA delivery in elderly adults at risk for dementia
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-10979987 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to help older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease get more omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA from fish, into their brains to support brain health and potentially lower the chances of developing dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $784,995 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG084834-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979987 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are elderly adults, particularly those showing early signs of cognitive decline or at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not elderly or do not exhibit any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the delivery of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, to the brains of elderly adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to explore how different forms of DHA, particularly those derived from fish, can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier to support brain health. By investigating the optimal methods for DHA delivery, the research seeks to mitigate neurodegenerative processes and reduce the risk of dementia in aging individuals. Participants may be involved in dietary assessments and interventions aimed at increasing DHA levels in the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective dietary interventions that significantly lower the risk of developing dementia in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using dietary omega-3 fatty acids to support brain health, but this specific approach of optimizing DHA delivery is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcnamara, Robert K. — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Mcnamara, Robert K.
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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.