Investigating how COVID-19 affects the brain and its connection to Alzheimer's disease.
COVID-19-related blood-brain barrier and microstructural brain injury; Sex differences and synergy with Alzheimer's disease risk
This study is looking at how COVID-19 might affect thinking and memory in older adults, especially those with Alzheimer's, and it wants to find out if the way the brain protects itself plays a role in this, while also considering if men and women are affected differently.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10991004 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of COVID-19 on cognitive function, particularly in older adults, and examines how the disease may worsen conditions related to Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on the blood-brain barrier's role in this process, assessing how its dysfunction could lead to brain injury following COVID-19 infection. The study will also consider sex differences in these effects, as both conditions show varying impacts based on gender. By understanding these connections, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that link COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, especially those aged 65 and above, who have experienced COVID-19.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those who have not had COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for cognitive impairments following COVID-19, particularly in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging research on the effects of COVID-19 on cognitive function, this specific investigation into the interplay with Alzheimer's disease is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reas, Emilie T. — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Reas, Emilie T.
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.