Exploring the effects of brief low oxygen levels on recovery after stroke
Official title: Novel Actions of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia in Hemispheric Stroke
Funded at Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab · NIH-10575870 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help stroke survivors recover by using short bursts of reduced oxygen levels, which might boost their muscle strength and movement, making rehabilitation more effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $453,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS130367-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10575870 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a hemispheric stroke and have residual limb impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had a stroke or those with severe comorbidities that prevent participation in rehabilitation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new treatment approach called Acute Intermittent Hypoxia (AIH) to help improve recovery in stroke patients. AIH involves short periods of reduced oxygen levels, which may stimulate brain pathways and enhance the production of a protein that supports nerve growth and repair. The study aims to measure how this treatment affects muscle activation and strength in the limbs of stroke survivors, potentially leading to better rehabilitation outcomes. By building on previous findings in spinal cord injury patients, the research seeks to determine the effectiveness of AIH in promoting recovery after a stroke.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies for stroke patients, enhancing their recovery and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using similar approaches in spinal cord injury patients, indicating potential for success in stroke rehabilitation.
Where this research is happening
-
Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rymer, William Zev — Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab
- Study coordinator: Rymer, William Zev
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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.