Investigating how gut bacteria and their products may influence dementia development in diverse populations
Official title: Delineating the role of the gut microbiota and its derived metabolites in the development of dementia in multi-ethnic populations
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11013329 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect brain health and the risk of developing Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, especially in diverse groups of people who might not get diagnosed or treated quickly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $220,479 |
| NIH project number | 5K01NS126489-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013329 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between gut microbiota and the development of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By analyzing data from two different cohorts, the study aims to identify how the composition and diversity of gut bacteria relate to brain health and cognitive function. The research focuses on understanding these relationships in multi-ethnic populations, particularly those who may face barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. The approach includes advanced techniques like 16S gene sequencing to profile gut bacteria and their metabolites.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating dementia by targeting gut health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain connection, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fongang, Bernard — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Fongang, Bernard
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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.