Understanding how brain circuits contribute to delirium after surgery in older adults with Alzheimer's disease
Neural Circuits Underlying Post-operative Delirium in Early Stage Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how certain brain areas in older adults, especially those with Alzheimer's, are affected by anesthesia and how this might lead to confusion after surgery, with the hope of finding ways to help prevent this issue in patients at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10754277 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural circuits involved in postoperative delirium (POD), a serious complication that affects elderly patients, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease. By studying specific brain regions that are impacted by Alzheimer's and influenced by anesthesia, the research aims to understand how these factors contribute to attention deficits and delirium. Using a rodent model, the study employs advanced techniques to assess cognitive recovery after anesthesia, which may provide insights into the mechanisms of POD. The findings could lead to potential interventions to prevent or mitigate delirium in at-risk patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are elderly individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who are scheduled for surgery.
Not a fit: Patients without Alzheimer's disease or those not undergoing surgical procedures may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing postoperative delirium in older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have indicated that understanding neural mechanisms can lead to breakthroughs in managing postoperative complications.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vincent, Kathleen Frances — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Vincent, Kathleen Frances
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.