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-10835675 · 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 problems, and it aims to find ways to help improve brain function for 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 | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $165,148 |
| NIH project number | 3RF1AG075341-01A1S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10835675 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have suffered from sepsis and are experiencing cognitive difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger or have not experienced sepsis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact 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 explore the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, in causing memory and attention issues after sepsis. By using advanced animal models that better mimic the conditions of older adults, the researchers will assess how age and existing Alzheimer's-related changes in the brain influence recovery from sepsis. The findings could help identify new therapeutic targets to improve cognitive outcomes for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cognitive dysfunction in older adults who have experienced sepsis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding neuroinflammatory responses can lead to significant advancements in treating cognitive dysfunction, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
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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How sepsis-related brain inflammation leads to lasting thinking and memory problems
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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 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.
-
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.