Understanding how high blood sugar affects brain function and behavior
Official title: An investigation of hyperglycemia-induced region-specific changes in brain metabolism and behavior
Funded at Baylor University · NIH-11042379 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waco, United States) |
| Project start | December 19, 2024 |
| Project end | December 18, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $420,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15MH139024-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042379 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with depression who also have chronic conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without depression or those not experiencing chronic metabolic conditions may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Baylor University
Waco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vichaya, Elisabeth Good — Baylor University
- Study coordinator: Vichaya, Elisabeth Good
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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.