Investigating how IL-6 affects cognitive decline after surgery in older adults and those with Alzheimer's disease

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific inflammatory cytokine, IL-6, may increase the risk of cognitive decline following surgery in older adults and individuals with Alzheimer's disease. By using animal models, the study aims to explore the mechanisms behind postoperative neurocognitive disorders (PNDs) and how IL-6 trans-signaling contributes to these conditions. The researchers will assess the levels of IL-6 in the brain during the perioperative period and evaluate whether blocking this signaling pathway can reduce the risk of cognitive decline. This approach could lead to new strategies for protecting vulnerable patients during and after surgical procedures.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• University of California, San Francisco
  San Francisco, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Maze, Mervyn — University of California, San Francisco
• Study coordinator: Maze, Mervyn

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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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.