Using liquid biopsies to study how a ketogenic diet affects brain health in mild cognitive impairment

Liquid biopsies to evaluate the effect of a ketogenic diet on molecular circuitries associated with mild cognitive impairment

['FUNDING_R01'] · WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11030759

This study is looking at how tiny particles in your blood can help track changes in the brain for people with early signs of Alzheimer's, and it will explore whether a special diet can improve brain function for those with mild memory issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WINSTON-SALEM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11030759 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of small extracellular vesicles, or exosomes, as liquid biopsies to monitor molecular changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study focuses on the effects of a Modified Mediterranean-Ketogenic Diet (MMKD) on individuals with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). Participants will undergo various assessments, including cognitive testing, brain imaging, and analysis of biomarkers, to evaluate the diet's impact on brain function and identify those who may benefit most from this dietary intervention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with amnestic mild cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients without mild cognitive impairment or those who are not interested in dietary interventions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that improve cognitive health and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for ketogenic diets in improving cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment, suggesting potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

WINSTON-SALEM, 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.