Understanding how high blood sugar affects brain function and behavior

An investigation of hyperglycemia-induced region-specific changes in brain metabolism and behavior

['FUNDING_R15'] · BAYLOR UNIVERSITY · NIH-11042379

This study is looking at how high blood sugar affects the brain and behavior in people with depression, especially those with diabetes, to help create better, personalized treatments for them.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R15']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBAYLOR UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WACO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11042379 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, leads to specific changes in brain metabolism and behavior. By focusing on different regions of the brain, the study aims to uncover the relationship between metabolic dysfunction and behavioral symptoms in individuals with depression, particularly those with chronic conditions like diabetes. The research will utilize advanced techniques to analyze brain tissue at multiple levels, including mitochondrial structure and gene expression, to better understand these changes. The goal is to personalize treatment approaches for patients suffering from depression linked to metabolic issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with depression who also have chronic conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Not a fit: Patients without depression or those not experiencing chronic metabolic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, personalized treatments for patients with depression, particularly those who are treatment-resistant.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been descriptive studies on immuno-metabolic depression, this research aims to provide empirical evidence and is exploring a relatively novel approach.

Where this research is happening

WACO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.