Investigating how diet and gut bacteria affect cognitive impairment in breast cancer survivors during chemotherapy

The Gut Microbial and Dietary Origins of Cancer Treatment-Related CognitiveImpairment

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10946927

This study is looking at how following a Mediterranean diet might help breast cancer survivors feel sharper and remember better during chemotherapy by exploring the connection between their diet, gut health, and brain function.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10946927 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the relationship between diet, gut microbiota, and cognitive impairment experienced by breast cancer survivors during chemotherapy. It aims to explore how adherence to a Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, may influence cognitive function and memory. The study will analyze the gut microbiome to determine if it plays a role in mediating the effects of diet on cognitive impairment. By examining these factors, the research seeks to provide insights into potential dietary interventions that could improve quality of life for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer survivors currently undergoing chemotherapy who are experiencing cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy or those without a diagnosis of breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that help reduce cognitive impairment in breast cancer survivors undergoing chemotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that dietary interventions can positively impact cognitive function in non-cancer populations, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions Breast CancerBreast Cancer Treatment
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.