Understanding how gut bacteria affect brain aging and Alzheimer's risk
CRCNS: Repurposing Transformers to Characterize Gut Microbiome & Aging Brain Axis
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect brain health as we get older, especially for people at risk of Alzheimer's, and it aims to find ways to lower the chances of developing dementia by involving patients in brain scans and memory tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171526 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the gut microbiome and the aging brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. By analyzing large datasets and using advanced machine-learning techniques, the study aims to identify modifiable risk factors that could help reduce the risk of dementia. Patients will be involved in assessments that include neuroimaging and cognitive evaluations to better understand how gut health influences brain health as we age. The research seeks to repurpose cutting-edge AI models to analyze complex biological data effectively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those concerned about cognitive decline or at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without any cognitive concerns may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or delaying Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia through dietary or lifestyle changes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain axis, but this approach using advanced AI models is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Vikas — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Singh, Vikas
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.