Investigating the role of reactive oxygen species in respiratory failure and cognitive impairment in older adults

Reactive Oxygen Species in Respiratory Failure, Delirium, and Post-ICU Cognitive Impairment

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10897952

This study is looking at how certain harmful substances in the body might affect thinking and movement in older adults who have had serious breathing problems and confusion while in the ICU, and it hopes to find ways to help prevent these issues in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897952 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to cognitive and physical impairments in older adults who experience acute respiratory failure and delirium during their ICU stay. The study will involve measuring ROS levels in blood samples from 80 critically ill patients who are mechanically ventilated, followed by assessments of their cognitive and physical functions over a period of 24 months. By exploring the connection between ROS and post-ICU cognitive decline, the research aims to uncover potential pathways for treatment and prevention of delirium-related impairments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill adults aged 21 and older who require mechanical ventilation due to acute respiratory failure.

Not a fit: Patients who are not critically ill or do not require mechanical ventilation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for cognitive impairments following ICU stays in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of measuring ROS in this context may be novel, previous research has indicated a link between inflammatory responses and cognitive impairments in critically ill patients.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
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.