Investigating how blood-brain barrier changes affect cognitive recovery after surgery in older adults
Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption as a Biomarker for Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorder:Cognitive Recovery after Elective Surgery
This study is looking at how problems with the blood-brain barrier might affect thinking and memory in older adults after they have surgery, using a special brain scan to see if these changes can help predict issues like confusion or memory loss after the operation, with the hope of finding ways to keep their minds safe during surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rhode Island Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003835 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction and cognitive issues that can arise after surgery in older adults. By using a specialized brain imaging technique called water exchange index MRI (WEI-MRI), the study aims to identify how changes in the BBB may predict the risk of postoperative delirium (POD) and postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). The research involves a longitudinal approach, tracking older patients undergoing major elective surgeries to better understand the impact of surgical stress on cognitive health. Ultimately, the goal is to develop strategies that enhance cognitive safety during surgery for elderly patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those over 65 years, who are scheduled for major elective non-cardiac surgeries.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those undergoing non-elective surgeries may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for preventing cognitive decline and enhancing recovery in older adults after surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that BBB dysfunction is linked to cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights, although the specific use of WEI-MRI in this context is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Rhode Island Hospital — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Daiello, Lori a — Rhode Island Hospital
- Study coordinator: Daiello, Lori a
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.