Understanding and treating memory problems from prostate cancer therapy
Therapy-induced cognitive impairment in a rat model of prostate cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-11145079
This research explores why prostate cancer treatment can cause memory and thinking problems, and looks for ways to prevent or reduce these side effects.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11145079 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer can lead to cognitive issues like memory loss and difficulty with executive functions, which significantly impact quality of life. Our previous work in animal models showed that a medication called vortioxetine helped reduce these cognitive problems. Now, we are using a more advanced rat model that includes prostate cancer itself, to better understand how ADT and potential treatments like vortioxetine affect the brain in a way that is closer to what patients experience. This will help us uncover the exact brain changes that cause these side effects and identify new ways to protect brain health during cancer treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with prostate cancer who are concerned about or experiencing cognitive side effects from androgen deprivation therapy.
Not a fit: Patients not undergoing androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer or those without cognitive concerns related to their treatment may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or strategies to prevent or lessen cognitive impairment in prostate cancer patients undergoing androgen deprivation therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using animal models have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating that vortioxetine may help mitigate ADT's cognitive effects.
Where this research is happening
SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER — SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MORILAK, DAVID A — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER
- Study coordinator: MORILAK, DAVID A
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.