Investigating postoperative delirium and memory issues using aged nonhuman primates
A Nonhuman Primate Model for Postoperative Delirium and Working Memory Impairment
This study is looking at how surgery-related confusion, known as postoperative delirium, might be linked to Alzheimer's disease by observing older monkeys and how they react to certain anesthetics, which could help us understand these issues better in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10891346 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to create a new model using aged nonhuman primates to study postoperative delirium (POD) and its connection to Alzheimer's disease. By observing delirium-like behaviors and conducting invasive neural recordings, researchers hope to gain insights into the mechanisms behind POD. The study will utilize anesthetics like sevoflurane and propofol to explore their effects on memory and behavior in these primates. This approach allows for a more relevant understanding of how these conditions may develop in humans, paving the way for future clinical applications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults undergoing surgical procedures who may be at risk for postoperative delirium.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or who are not at risk for delirium or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for patients at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease after surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using nonhuman primate models for studying neurological conditions, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xie, Zhongcong — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Xie, Zhongcong
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 below.