Exploratory Trial of a modular, networked neurostimulation system to aid people with spinal cord injury
Official title: Exploratory Trial of the RESTORES (Revolutionary Electrical Stimulation Technology to Optimize Recovery of Everyone with Spinal Cord Injury) System
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11424035 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A personalized, implantable neurostimulation system is being tested to help people with spinal cord injury improve multiple daily functions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,202,540 |
| NIH project number | 1UG3NS150062-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11424035 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with spinal cord injury who have functional challenges in areas such as movement, bladder control, and cardiovascular function and are eligible for neurostimulation therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without SCI or without conditions amendable to neurostimulation may not experience benefit.
What this research studies
This project tests a flexible, open-source peripheral neurostimulation platform designed to address several problems common after spinal cord injury. By coordinating multiple stimulation channels, the system aims to improve upper limb use, trunk stability, bladder and bowel control, and cardiovascular health for individuals with SCI. Participants would receive an implant and follow-up care to tune the device and monitor outcomes alongside standard rehabilitation. The approach emphasizes customization to each person’s unique injury and daily needs. Results could guide more comprehensive, patient-centered care in SCI rehabilitation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could restore or improve several daily functions, helping people with SCI regain independence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous neurostimulation work shows promise for individual functions, but this project tests a modular system aiming to address multiple functions simultaneously.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fu, Michael John — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Fu, Michael John
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.