Understanding how gut bacteria affect inflammation and mental health in head and neck cancer patients
The Role of the Gut Microbiome and Short Chain Fatty Acids in the Regulation of Inflammation and Neuropsychological Symptoms in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect feelings of tiredness, sadness, and trouble thinking while you're getting treatment for head and neck cancer, and it aims to find ways to help you feel better during that time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11044195 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between the gut microbiome and neuropsychological symptoms in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy. It focuses on how short-chain fatty acids produced by gut bacteria may influence inflammation and related symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and cognitive dysfunction. By analyzing gut bacteria through advanced sequencing techniques, the study aims to uncover biological factors that contribute to these symptoms and improve patient outcomes. Patients will be monitored for changes in their gut microbiome and corresponding neuropsychological symptoms throughout their treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer who are receiving chemoradiotherapy and experiencing neuropsychological symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancer who are not undergoing chemoradiotherapy or do not exhibit neuropsychological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing neuropsychological symptoms in head and neck cancer patients, potentially improving their quality of life and treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between gut microbiome health and neuropsychological symptoms, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights and improvements in patient care.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xiao, Canhua — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Xiao, Canhua
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.