Cardiovascular diseases are associated with diminished cognitive function, even in patients without vascular dementia. Considering the high prevalence of these disorders in the United States, and the fact that cognition is the most important determinant of quality of life and functional ability in older age, early interventions t preserve cognitive function in patients at cardiovascular risk are crucial for ensuring the successful aging of our growing elderly population. While an ideal intervention would restore the original cardiovascular status, that is often not possible for a variety of reasons. An alternative approach is to support brain energy production by up-regulating mitochondrial respiration. One highly promising novel intervention is transcranial low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with directional low-power and high-fluence light energy from infrared lasers to stimulate brain energy production. LLLT is safe, non-invasive and therapeutically beneficial, promoting enhancement of energy production, gene expression and prevention of cell death. The goal of this project is to test the efficacy of LLLT to enhance neurocognitive function in middle-aged adults and examine the modulating influences of carotid atherosclerosis.
The specific aims will be accomplished in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) by examining cognitive test performance and blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) response to a working memory task in middle-aged adults pre- and post- 8-week long intervention of LLLT or placebo. In addition, we will examine if carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) moderates the therapeutic effects of LLLT.

Public Health Relevance

Cardiovascular diseases are associated with diminished cognitive function, even in patients without vascular dementia. While an ideal intervention would restore the original cardiovascular status, that is often not possible. Thus, there is a pressing need for alternative treatments to prevent cognitive decline. The goal of this project is to test te efficacy of a promising novel intervention, transcranial laser therapy, for enhancing neurocognitive function in middle-aged adults and examine the moderating influences of carotid atherosclerosis.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Type
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Project #
1R21AG050898-01A1
Application #
9112328
Study Section
Aging Systems and Geriatrics Study Section (ASG)
Program Officer
Wagster, Molly V
Project Start
2016-09-01
Project End
2018-05-31
Budget Start
2016-09-01
Budget End
2017-05-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2016
Total Cost
$232,465
Indirect Cost
$82,465
Name
University of Texas Austin
Department
Psychology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
170230239
City
Austin
State
TX
Country
United States
Zip Code
78712