Understanding how sepsis affects brain function in older adults
Official title: Neuroinflammatory mechanisms underlying sepsis-induced cognitive dysfunction
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10525755 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sepsis affects thinking and memory in older adults, especially how inflammation in the brain might cause long-lasting issues, and it aims to understand the differences in brain responses between older and younger people to help find better ways to support those who have had sepsis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $1,940,638 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG075341-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10525755 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have experienced sepsis or are at risk of developing cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger or do not have a history of sepsis or cognitive dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of sepsis on cognitive function in older adults, particularly focusing on how inflammation in the brain may lead to long-term cognitive impairments. The study aims to identify the mechanisms behind these changes by examining the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, and how their response differs in older individuals compared to younger ones. By using advanced animal models, the researchers will explore the relationship between age, Alzheimer's disease-related changes, and cognitive outcomes following sepsis. This comprehensive approach seeks to provide insights into the neurological impacts of sepsis and potential interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for cognitive dysfunction in older adults following sepsis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of inflammation in cognitive decline has shown promise, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harrison, Fiona Edith — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Harrison, Fiona Edith
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Investigating a hormone treatment for cognitive issues caused by sepsis in older adults
This study is looking at how sepsis can affect thinking and memory in older adults and is testing a hormone called hCG to see if it can help protect the brain and improve cognitive health after a severe infection.
-
Understanding how sepsis affects brain function in older adults
This study is looking at how sepsis affects thinking and memory in older adults, especially how inflammation in the brain might cause long-lasting problems, and it aims to find ways to help improve brain function for those who have had sepsis.
-
Role of blood flow mechanics and transfusion in sepsis-related tiny-cl vessel clots
A patient-focused look at how red blood cell flow and transfusions might influence tiny blood vessel clots and organ problems in sepsis.
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.