Investigating the risk factors and incidence of dementia in ICU survivors

BRAIN-ICU-2 Study: Bringing to Light the Risk Factors And Incidence of Neuropsychological Dysfunction (Dementia) in ICU Survivors, 2nd Study

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10768538

This study is looking at patients in the ICU who experience confusion, called delirium, after serious breathing problems or shock, to see how it might affect their thinking and memory later on, similar to Alzheimer's, and to find ways to help prevent these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10768538 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on patients who have been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to respiratory failure or shock, where a significant number develop delirium. The study aims to understand how this delirium can lead to long-term cognitive impairments similar to Alzheimer's disease. By examining the relationship between ICU-related delirium and subsequent dementia, the researchers hope to identify potential interventions to prevent or mitigate these cognitive issues. The study utilizes neuroimaging techniques to explore brain changes associated with delirium.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been admitted to the ICU with respiratory failure or shock and have experienced delirium during their stay.

Not a fit: Patients who have preexisting dementia or cognitive impairments prior to their ICU admission may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that prevent or reduce the risk of dementia in ICU survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, including the BRAIN-ICU-1 study, have shown significant findings regarding cognitive impairments in ICU survivors, indicating that this research builds on established knowledge in the field.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.