Using microbes to reduce inflammation and cognitive decline in older adults after surgery
Targeting age-related neuroinflammation and postoperative cognitive decline: a microbial-based approach
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-10795907
This study is looking at how a friendly soil bacterium called Mycobacterium vaccae might help older adults feel sharper and think better after surgery by reducing inflammation in the brain, and if you join, you could help us learn more about how this could improve brain health as we age.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10795907 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how a specific soil bacterium, Mycobacterium vaccae, can help reduce neuroinflammation and prevent cognitive decline in older adults following surgery. The study aims to understand the relationship between age-related immune changes and cognitive health, particularly focusing on postoperative cognitive decline (POCD), which affects many elderly patients. By administering three subcutaneous injections of M. vaccae, the researchers hope to improve the immune response and protect against cognitive issues that can arise after surgical procedures. Patients participating in this research may contribute to a better understanding of how microbial therapies can enhance brain health in aging populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those undergoing surgical procedures who are at risk for postoperative cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 years old or those not undergoing surgery may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults after surgery.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of microbial therapies is a relatively novel approach, there is emerging evidence suggesting that similar strategies may have beneficial effects on immune regulation and cognitive health.
Where this research is happening
AUSTIN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN — AUSTIN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FONKEN, LAURA K — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
- Study coordinator: FONKEN, LAURA K
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 below.