Investigating cognitive impairment caused by prostate cancer treatment in rats

Therapy-induced cognitive impairment in a rat model of prostate cancer

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-10868648

This study is looking at how a common prostate cancer treatment called androgen deprivation therapy might affect thinking and memory, and it will also test if an antidepressant can help improve these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project IDNIH-10868648 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a common treatment for prostate cancer, affects cognitive functions such as memory and executive function. Using a rat model, the study will examine the structural and functional changes in the brain caused by ADT and how these changes may lead to cognitive impairment. The researchers will also investigate the potential of vortioxetine, an antidepressant, to alleviate these cognitive deficits. By introducing cancer pathophysiology into the model, the study aims to better understand the interplay between cancer treatment and cognitive health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are prostate cancer patients who are undergoing or have undergone androgen deprivation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving androgen deprivation therapy or those with advanced dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for mitigating cognitive impairment in prostate cancer survivors undergoing ADT.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that cognitive impairments related to cancer treatments can be mitigated by certain interventions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

San Antonio, 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 2026-06-13 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.