Investigating how gut health affects Alzheimer's disease development

Gut barrier function in Alzheimer’s disease

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11018507

This study is looking at how the variety of bacteria in our gut might affect the progression of Alzheimer's disease in older adults, hoping to find ways that improving gut health could help with brain health and memory.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11018507 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between gut microbiome diversity and the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), particularly in older adults. It aims to understand how changes in gut bacteria may influence brain health and contribute to neurodegenerative processes. By analyzing gut microbiota and its association with biomarkers of AD, the study seeks to uncover mechanisms that could link gut health to cognitive decline. The research will involve both observational studies and potential interventions to assess the impact of gut microbiome alterations on AD pathology.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those showing early signs of cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with non-age-related cognitive impairments or those without any signs of cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease through gut health interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results linking gut microbiome health to neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
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.