Understanding how blood-brain barrier changes affect cognitive recovery after surgery

Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption as a Biomarker for Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorder:Cognitive Recovery after Elective Surgery

NIH-funded research Rhode Island Hospital · NIH-10561705

This study is looking at how problems with the blood-brain barrier might affect thinking and memory after surgery in older adults, using a special brain scan to help understand these changes and improve recovery after major surgeries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRhode Island Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10561705 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction and cognitive issues that can arise after surgery, particularly in older adults. By using a specialized brain imaging technique called water exchange index MRI (WEI-MRI), the study aims to identify how changes in the BBB may predict the risk of postoperative delirium and cognitive dysfunction. The research involves a longitudinal approach, tracking older patients undergoing major elective surgeries to gather data on their cognitive recovery. The ultimate goal is to develop strategies that enhance cognitive safety during surgical procedures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those over 65 years, who are scheduled for major elective non-cardiac surgeries.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or are younger than 65 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for preventing cognitive decline and delirium in older adults after surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has suggested a link between blood-brain barrier dysfunction and cognitive outcomes, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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.