Investigating how liver inflammation affects brain health in older adults

The role of hepatocyte necroptosis and inflammation in liver-brain crosstalk in aging

NIH-funded research University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10980163

This study is looking at how liver inflammation might be linked to memory and thinking problems in older adults, and it hopes to find ways to improve brain health by targeting a specific process that causes cell death in the liver.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10980163 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between liver inflammation and cognitive decline in aging individuals. It focuses on a specific cell death process called necroptosis, which may contribute to inflammation in the liver and subsequently affect brain function. By studying this relationship, the research aims to identify potential pathways that could be targeted to improve cognitive health in older adults. The approach includes both animal models and potential pharmacological interventions to reduce liver inflammation and its effects on the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who are experiencing cognitive decline or have chronic liver conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have any cognitive impairments or liver diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and overall brain health in older adults suffering from liver-related inflammation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between liver health and cognitive function, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights, although the specific focus on necroptosis in this context is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Oklahoma City, 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.