Investigating how women's reproductive history affects cognitive decline and brain health in Alzheimer's disease.

How women’s reproductive life-history relates to cognitive decline and neuropathology in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10902105

This study is looking at how things like pregnancy and breastfeeding might affect brain health and the risk of memory problems in women as they age, especially after menopause.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10902105 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between women's reproductive life history and the risk of cognitive decline and neuropathology in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By analyzing data from a large cohort of post-menopausal women, the study aims to understand how factors like pregnancy and breastfeeding may influence brain health over time. The researchers will utilize existing data and MRI images to assess brain changes and cognitive outcomes, focusing on the unique experiences of women. This approach seeks to uncover potential protective effects of reproductive events on cognitive health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are post-menopausal women aged 65 and older who have participated in the Women's Health Initiative.

Not a fit: Patients who are not post-menopausal or who have not experienced pregnancy or breastfeeding may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how reproductive history influences Alzheimer's disease risk, potentially guiding preventive strategies for women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the protective effects of pregnancy and breastfeeding on cognitive health, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, 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 →

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.