Curcumin supplementation for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis and gut health
Official title: Curcumin and Retinal Amyloid-beta Pilot Study
Run by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center · NCT05774704 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if taking curcumin for two weeks can help people with Alzheimer's by checking its effects on brain health and gut bacteria.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase1; Phase2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 40 Years to 89 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lubbock, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 21, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | January 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05774704 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 40-89 diagnosed with amyloid beta deposits in the retina.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with ocular diseases or those who have recently used antibiotics or curcumin products may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of two weeks of curcumin supplementation on its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to amyloid beta proteins in individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The research aims to assess the safety and bioavailability of curcumin while also exploring changes in gut microbiota composition. Participants will be recruited from various community sources, and the study will involve both low and high curcumin dosage groups. The goal is to determine the feasibility of using curcumin as a diagnostic tool for Alzheimer's disease and its potential impact on gut health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel approach for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease and improving gut health.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using curcumin for Alzheimer's diagnosis is novel, there is emerging evidence supporting the connection between curcumin and neurological health.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion: * Both male and female, age 40 - 89 years. * Diagnosed with Aβ deposits in retina (peripheral superior quadrants)--to be confirmed after consent obtained. If there is documentation the potential participant has been diagnosed with Aβ deposits in retina within 6 months before the consent session, we will use this diagnosis/documentation for eligibility criteria. Otherwise, the ophthalmic exam will be repeated after consent is obtained for the study. * No pre-existing liver or kidney diseases by self-report. Exclusion: * Patients with ocular diseases (macular degeneration, severe diabetes retinopathy) * Had used systemic antibiotics within 1 month prior to the start of the study intervention * Had taken any turmeric or curcumin products within 2 weeks prior to the start of the study intervention * Had a known allergy to black pepper * Women that are pregnant or breastfeeding
Where it's running
-
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Chwan-Li (Leslie) Shen, PhD — Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
- Study coordinator: Chwan-Li (Leslie) Shen, PhD
- Email: leslie.shen@ttuhsc.edu
- Phone: 8067432815
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.