Effects of polyphenols on cognitive decline in older adults
Official title: MAEVE: Microbiota Mediated Flavonoid Metabolites for Cognitive Health
Run by University of California, Los Angeles · NCT06507254 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a supplement made from polyphenols, which are found in Mediterranean foods, can help older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease keep their brains healthy and slow down cognitive decline.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 50 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of California, Los Angeles Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 9, 2025 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2029 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | June 11, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06507254 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 50 and older who are overweight or obese and at enhanced risk for Alzheimer's disease due to family history.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are vegan or vegetarian, have existing cognitive impairment, or are currently receiving treatment for dementia 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 potential of polyphenols, found in a Mediterranean diet, to prevent or delay cognitive decline in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease. Participants aged 50 and older who are overweight or obese and consume a typical Western diet will be given either a polyphenol supplement or a placebo. The study aims to explore how these dietary interventions may influence brain health and gut microbiome interactions, potentially leading to improved cognitive function. By focusing on the role of gut-derived metabolites, the research seeks to uncover new strategies for healthy cognitive aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a dietary intervention to help preserve cognitive function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results in using dietary interventions to improve cognitive health, suggesting that this approach may be viable.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 50+ Years of age * Male or Female * At enhanced risk of Alzheimer's Disease (defined as family history of AD, 1st degree family member) * Habitually consume suboptimal diets such as typical Western Diet (i.e., high in animal products, refined carbohydrates and processed food) * Able to communicate well in English Exclusion Criteria: * Vegan or Vegetarian * Presence of cognitive impairment at the time of recruitment into the study as measured by the Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE, score 25-30) and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR, score=0). * Pre-existing psychosis or psychiatric conditions * Currently receiving treatment for dementia * History of alcohol and/or substance abuse/dependence as determined by a positive endorsement on the MINI+/ If the MINI+ is positive for alcohol or drug dependence, or abuse, the participants will be excluded. * Heavy use of tobacco (greater than 1/2 pack per day) * History of cerebrovascular events * Existing allergies to berry fruits * Use of oral/IV antibiotics in the last 3 months. Use of probiotics in the last 1 month. * Recent Changes (last 3 months) in the use of psychoactive medications or other medications that interfere with the measured outcomes. * Frailty, malnutrition, or food allergy/intolerance requiring special diets. * Body weight at enrollment greater than 400lbs due to weight restrictions on the MRI table. * Women who are pregnant, lactating, or postpartum for less than 6months. * Women of childbearing age who are not practicing birth control or are planning to get pregnant during the study. Unable to safely participate in the MRI (claustrophobia, presence of devices affected by MRI such as pacemakers, neurostimulators, metallic foreign body, etc.) * Chronic Pain
Where it's running
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University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Arpana Church, PhD — The Regents of the University of California, Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Marika Dy, MPH
- Email: ChurchLab@mednet.ucla.edu
- Phone: 2670089
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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-
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This study is testing whether a combination of brain stimulation and digital training can help improve thinking skills in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease.
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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.