Investigating gut microbiome effects on brain function in Lewy body diseases
Official title: Microbiome-gut-brain dysfunction in prodromal and symptomatic Lewy body diseases
Funded at Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-10895428 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in gut bacteria might affect memory and thinking in people with Lewy body dementias, like Parkinson’s Disease Dementia, and is especially focused on those with sleep issues, to find early signs of the disease and understand how it progresses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $890,110 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS133569-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10895428 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with idiopathic REM Sleep Behavior Disorder or those at risk for Lewy body dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Lewy body diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between gut microbiome changes and cognitive decline in Lewy body dementias, such as Parkinson’s Disease Dementia and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. It aims to understand how disruptions in gut bacteria and increased intestinal permeability may contribute to the progression of these diseases. By studying patients with idiopathic REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, the research seeks to identify early indicators of disease and their association with brain degeneration and clinical outcomes. The approach involves a prospective, cross-sectional study to gather data on these mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies targeting gut health to improve cognitive function in patients with Lewy body diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of linking gut microbiome changes to Lewy body diseases is relatively novel, there is growing evidence supporting the role of gut health in neurodegenerative conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ryman, Sephira — Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Ryman, Sephira
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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.