2024 New Investigator Awards Program (NIAP)
The gut-brain-axis in Alzheimer's disease-related metabolic impairment
How do changes in the gut microbiome influence metabolism and brain function in Alzheimer’s?
Abbi Hernandez, Ph.D.
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - United States
Background
The gut microbiome is the community of microorganisms that live within the intestine and impact overall human health. Recent studies have found that imbalances in the microbiome may be associated with several brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s. However, the specific mechanisms by which the gut microbiome impacts brain function are not well understood.
One possible way that gut microbiome may impact the brain is through effects on one’s metabolism, the process of how the body breaks down foods into energy. During this process, the body produces different compounds called metabolites that are transported throughout the body and enable cells to carry out vital functions. Dr. Abbi Hernandez and colleagues believe that changes in the gut microbiome result in altered levels of brain metabolites, which influences cognitive function.
Research Plan
The researchers will investigate the relationship between gut microbiome composition and brain metabolites (the products of metabolism in the brain) in genetically engineered rats with Alzheimer’s-like brain changes and cognitively unimpaired rats. They will collect biological samples from the rats using brain microdialysis (a specific type of analysis) and study the levels of different brain products or metabolites produced. They will also collect and analyze the intestinal contents of the rats to assess imbalance of the gut microbiome and its association with brain metabolites.
Additionally, the research team will study the time course of metabolic impairments, gut microbiome imbalance, and brain metabolites in female Alzheimer’s-like rats. They will collect data from these rats every four months over a period of twenty months to help determine the time point at which each factor may be contributing to cognitive decline.
Impact
This study may shine light on the relationship between gut microbiome imbalance, metabolic impairments, and brain health. The results may support targeting the gut microbiome as a potential therapy for Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
The New Investigator Program Award (NIAP) is jointly funded by the Alzheimer's Association and National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center.