Investigating a hormone treatment for cognitive issues caused by sepsis in older adults
Evaluation of Chorionic Gonadotropin as a Treatment for Sepsis-induced Neuroinflammation and Cognitive Dysfunction in the Aged Brain
This study is looking at how sepsis can affect thinking and memory in older adults and is testing a hormone called hCG to see if it can help protect the brain and improve cognitive health after a severe infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10869217 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how sepsis, a severe infection, can lead to long-term cognitive problems in older adults. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone, in preventing or reducing neuroinflammation and cognitive dysfunction associated with sepsis. By examining the mechanisms of immune response and blood-brain barrier integrity, the research seeks to identify potential neuroprotective therapies that could improve brain health in aged sepsis patients. Participants may undergo assessments to evaluate cognitive function and response to treatment over the study period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have experienced sepsis and are at risk for cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger or have not experienced sepsis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help preserve cognitive function in older adults who experience sepsis.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific use of hCG for this purpose is novel, there is emerging evidence that targeting neuroinflammation may be beneficial in similar contexts.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Casadesus, Gemma — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Casadesus, Gemma
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 below.