Investigating how brain injuries affect attention and thinking in older adults
Official title: Traumatic brain injury and aging: targeting the cholinergic system for deficits in sustained attention and executive function
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10837732 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a traumatic brain injury can affect thinking skills in older adults and whether a new treatment might help improve those skills and overall quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $359,751 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS110609-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10837732 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have suffered a traumatic brain injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 years or those without a history of traumatic brain injury may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on cognitive functions such as sustained attention and executive function in older adults. It aims to understand how TBI can lead to long-lasting cognitive impairments and increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study will explore the role of the cholinergic system, particularly the α7 nicotinic receptors, and evaluate the potential benefits of a new therapeutic agent, NS 1738, in improving cognitive outcomes. Patients may be involved in assessments and treatments that could enhance their cognitive abilities and overall quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia in older adults who have experienced traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting the cholinergic system for cognitive impairments, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bondi, Corina Oana — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Bondi, Corina Oana
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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.