Exploring ways to repair damaged spinal cords using gene analysis.
Defining and exploiting the plasticity transcriptome to repair the damaged spinal cord
This study is exploring how the brain can help heal and grow after a spinal cord injury, with the hope of finding new ways to support recovery for people dealing with these injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001944 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the adult central nervous system can initiate growth and repair after spinal cord injuries. By using advanced techniques like viral tracing and single cell RNA sequencing, the team aims to create a detailed map of the corticospinal tract, which is crucial for movement. The goal is to understand the molecular mechanisms that promote axon growth during rehabilitation, particularly in the presence of growth inhibitors. This knowledge could lead to new therapies that enhance recovery for individuals with spinal cord damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have experienced acute or chronic spinal cord injuries.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries that are too severe or those who are not responsive to rehabilitation therapies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that significantly improve recovery and quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding spinal cord repair mechanisms, but this approach is innovative and aims to build on existing knowledge.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cafferty, William B. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Cafferty, William B.
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 below.