Investigating how gut inflammation affects brain health
Official title: Studying the Gut-Brain inflammatory interaction
Funded at Oakland University · NIH-10291246 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how long-term gut inflammation might affect brain function, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's, by observing changes in brain activity in mice with gut issues, to help us understand the link between gut health and brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oakland University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $430,646 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DK125941-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10291246 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases who may be at risk for neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any gastrointestinal issues or those who do not have a risk of neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between chronic gut inflammation and its impact on brain function, particularly in relation to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to demonstrate how gut issues can alter brain activity and potentially lead to cognitive decline. The research involves observing changes in brain physiology in mice with induced gut inflammation, focusing on specific inflammatory markers and brain activity levels. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms linking gut health and brain health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by addressing gut health.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has indicated a potential link between gut health and neurodegenerative diseases, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Oakland University
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rhee, Sang Hoon — Oakland University
- Study coordinator: Rhee, Sang Hoon
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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.