Investigating how diet and gut bacteria affect cognitive impairment in breast cancer survivors during chemotherapy
Official title: The Gut Microbial and Dietary Origins of Cancer Treatment-Related CognitiveImpairment
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10946927 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 6, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $150,701 |
| NIH project number | 1K99CA293168-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10946927 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer survivors currently undergoing chemotherapy who are experiencing cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy or those without a diagnosis of breast cancer may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcleod, Andrew P — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mcleod, Andrew P
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.