Investigating how low blood sugar affects brain function and cognition in diabetes patients

Brain Vascular Signatures in Drug-induced Recurrent Hypoglycemia and Associated Cognitive Dysfunction

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · NIH-10850293

This study is looking at how low blood sugar episodes affect thinking and memory in people with Type 2 diabetes by using a special imaging technique to see how blood flow in the brain changes during mental tasks.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10850293 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the cognitive impairments caused by recurrent hypoglycemia in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It aims to explore the relationship between brain vascular responses and cognitive dysfunction using a novel imaging technique called PAUL, which combines photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging. By visualizing brain blood flow and oxygenation during cognitive tasks, the study seeks to uncover how low blood sugar episodes impact brain activity and cognitive performance. This innovative approach may help identify specific brain changes associated with cognitive decline in diabetes patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes who experience recurrent episodes of hypoglycemia.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes or those who do not experience hypoglycemic episodes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing cognitive health in diabetes patients, potentially reducing the risk of dementia.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using advanced imaging techniques to study cognitive function in diabetes is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the effects of vascular health on cognitive decline.

Where this research is happening

CHAMPAIGN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.