The link between early life blood sugar levels and Alzheimer's disease markers in middle age.

Early life glycemic status and Alzheimer's disease neuroimaging markers in middle age: the Bogalusa Heart Study

NIH-funded research Tulane University of Louisiana · NIH-10535457

This study is looking at how blood sugar levels in early life might affect brain health and the risk of Alzheimer's disease later on, and it's for middle-aged people who want to understand how their early life health could impact their memory and thinking in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Orleans, United States)
Project IDNIH-10535457 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how glycemic status during early life may influence the development of Alzheimer's disease neuroimaging markers in middle-aged individuals. By examining the relationship between metabolic dysfunction and brain health, the study aims to identify potential risk factors that could be modified to prevent cognitive decline. Participants will undergo neuroimaging and assessments to evaluate brain changes associated with early life blood sugar levels. The findings could provide insights into how early interventions might mitigate the risk of Alzheimer's disease later in life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who experienced metabolic dysfunction or abnormal glycemic levels during childhood or adolescence.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced any metabolic dysfunction or who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies for preventing Alzheimer's disease by addressing early life metabolic health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that early life factors can significantly impact long-term cognitive health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New Orleans, 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 2026-06-10 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.