Old TB vaccine tested for brain benefits in seniors
NCT ID NCT04507126
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This pilot study gave the BCG vaccine (used for tuberculosis) to 20 healthy older adults aged 55-80. Researchers measured changes in immune markers and Alzheimer's-related proteins in blood and spinal fluid over 90 days. The goal was to see if this common vaccine might influence brain inflammation and related biomarkers.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- BCG vaccine
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could point toward a way to use an existing vaccine to reduce brain inflammation and potentially lower Alzheimer's risk.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small pilot study with only 20 healthy older adults. It only looks at biomarker changes, not whether BCG actually prevents or treats any disease. Results may not apply to the general population.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Clinical Translational Research Unit
Charlestown, Massachusetts, 02124, United States
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