Using prebiotics to improve cognitive function in people with schizophrenia
Prebiotic Treatment in People with Schizophrenia
This study is looking at whether special dietary fibers that help good bacteria in the gut can boost brain function and memory in people with schizophrenia, and you'll be part of a trial to see how well these treatments work over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11179744 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how prebiotic treatments, which are dietary fibers that promote beneficial gut bacteria, can help improve cognitive impairments in individuals with schizophrenia. The study focuses on the relationship between gut microbiota and brain function, particularly how short-chain fatty acids produced by these bacteria may influence cognitive abilities and immune system function. Participants will be involved in a double-blind trial to assess the effectiveness of these treatments over time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who experience cognitive impairments.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of schizophrenia or those who do not experience cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary interventions that significantly improve cognitive function and overall quality of life for individuals with schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using prebiotics for cognitive enhancement is relatively novel, emerging evidence suggests potential benefits in related areas, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Buchanan, Robert W — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Buchanan, Robert W
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.