Brain connections that control swallowing after stroke

Brain Networks Supporting Oral and Pharyngeal Swallow Function after Stroke

['FUNDING_R01'] · MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA · NIH-11241977

This project looks at how brain connections affect swallowing after stroke so doctors can better predict recovery and match treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11241977 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

You would join a large group of people who had a stroke and complete detailed tests of swallowing and brain scans. Researchers will use precise measures of oral and pharyngeal swallowing (such as videofluoroscopy and physiological recordings) together with brain imaging to map the networks involved. They will link patterns of network damage or change to who recovers swallowing naturally, who improves with therapy, and who has limited recovery. The aim is to find brain-network signatures that could guide more personalized swallowing treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Adults who have had a stroke and are experiencing swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) would be the ideal candidates.

Not a fit: People without stroke-related swallowing problems or those whose dysphagia is caused by non-stroke conditions may not see direct benefit from this specific work.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Could lead to tools that predict swallowing recovery and help clinicians choose the most effective treatments for each patient.

How similar studies have performed: Earlier small studies have suggested links between brain imaging and swallowing outcomes, but applying a large, network-focused approach is relatively new.

Where this research is happening

CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.