Investigating the effects of anesthesia on Alzheimer's disease development

General Anesthesia and Alzheimer's Disease Neuropathogenesis

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10875775

This study is looking at how different types of anesthesia might affect the progression of Alzheimer's disease in patients, especially considering whether men and women are impacted differently, to help improve surgical outcomes for those living with the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10875775 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how different anesthetics may influence the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in patients, particularly focusing on the potential differences in effects based on sex. It aims to identify which anesthetics could be beneficial or harmful in terms of AD neuropathogenesis, specifically looking at the molecular mechanisms involved. The study will utilize both human and transgenic mouse models to assess the impact of anesthetics like isoflurane and sevoflurane compared to desflurane on Tau phosphorylation and cognitive function. By understanding these interactions, the research seeks to improve surgical outcomes for patients with Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are undergoing surgery and have a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or do not have Alzheimer's disease may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer anesthesia practices for patients with Alzheimer's disease, potentially reducing cognitive decline post-surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that anesthetics can influence Alzheimer's disease progression, suggesting that this research builds on established findings but focuses on a novel aspect of sex-dependent effects.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.