Clinical Research Directory

Optimizing CNS DHA Delivery in Elderly Adults at Risk for Dementia

The purpose of this placebo-controlled trial is to compare the effects of 24-weeks supplementation with LPC-DHA and TAG-DHA on cerebrospinal fluid and blood DHA levels, as well as biomarkers of central neurodegenerative and neurotrophic activity, in elderly adults experiencing early signs of cognitive/memory decline including those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Extant evidence supports our overarching hypothesis that LPC-DHA supplementation will be more effective than TAG-DHA for increasing central (CSF) DHA levels and improving biomarker profiles in elderly adults. To assess this hypothesis, the following aims are proposed: SPECIFIC AIM 1: To compare the effects of LPC-DHA and TAG-DHA supplementation on peripheral and CSF DHA levels in elderly adults experiencing early signs of cognitive/memory decline. SPECIFIC AIM 2: To compare the effects of LPC-DHA and TAG-DHA supplementation on neurotrophic and neurodegenerative biomarkers. Secondary Aim: To investigate whether changes in CSF DHA levels correlate with changes in objective measures of executive functioning and episodic memory performance.

In-Person Recruitment of Individuals to the Alzheimer's Prevention Trial (APT) Webstudy

Women, older adults, individuals from communities of color, particularly Black and Latino persons, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status are historically underrepresented in clinical research. This is true across a range of clinical areas but no more so than in Alzheimer's Disease Research. The purpose of this study is to assess whether offering small $25 financial incentives can increase enrollment of diverse community members to the Alzheimer's Prevention Trial (APT) Webstudy, a memory concerns registry meant to accelerate clinical trials, relative to non-monetary incentives such as a reusable grocery bag. To do this we will test in-person recruitment efforts at community events and locations, such as Northgate Gonzalez Market locations and local food bank events. We also aim to compare the relative cost of recruiting an additional person to the APT Webstudy.

Anti-inflammatory Probiotics in Cognitive Functioning

The goal of this study is to explore the potential impact of an anti-inflammatory probiotic mixture of psychobiotics including Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 and Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell®-52 on cognitive functions in older adults following either pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory diets. According to recent findings, even short-term exposure to foods with pro- or anti-inflammatory properties may lead to corresponding negative or beneficial effects on cognitive functioning . The main questions this study aims to answer are: * How important is the initial dietary pattern for observing possible beneficial effects of probiotic supplementation? (Diet as a potential moderator) * How important is the initial state of the gut microbiota for observing possible beneficial effects of probiotic supplementation? (Microbiota as a potential moderator) * Is it possible to improve or slow down the decline in cognitive functions associated with aging with probiotic supplementation? * Can probiotic supplementation counteract the negative effects of pro-inflammatory dietary patterns? The investigators will compare probiotic to a placebo (a look-alike substance that contains no active ingredients) to determine whether probiotic is effective in enhancing cognitive function. Participants: * Take a probiotic or placebo capsule daily for 3 months * Undergo a crossover after 3 months - those who initially took probiotics will switch to the placebo, and vice versa * Visit SWPS University for screening (T0), baseline assessments before beginning supplementation (T1), and follow-up assessments at 3 months (T2) and 6 months (T3). The T2 visit occurs just before the crossover. * Complete neuropsychological testing, questionnaires, and EEG recordings during the T1, T2, and T3 visits. * Provide stool samples for gut microbiota analysis at the T1, T2, and T3 visits. * Maintain their usual dietary habits throughout the study.