Fibroblast laminin and repair of the brain's blood barrier after bleeding

Fibroblast-derived laminin regulates blood-brain barrier integrity and fibroblast biology in hemorrhagic brain

NIH-funded research University of South Florida · NIH-11160566

Testing whether a protein made by scar-forming cells (fibroblasts) helps rebuild the blood–brain barrier after intracerebral hemorrhage to limit brain damage and aid recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-11160566 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This project uses mouse models of intracerebral hemorrhage and lab-grown human cells to study how laminin produced by fibroblasts affects blood–brain barrier repair and scar formation after brain bleeding. Researchers will compare mice that lack fibroblast laminin to normal mice to see how its absence changes leakage, immune cell entry, and tissue injury. In lab experiments they will test how laminin interacts with blood vessel cells, using drugs and genetic tools to find the receptors that mediate protective effects. They will also examine how laminin affects fibroblast growth, movement, and the composition of fibrotic scars.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People who recently experienced an intracerebral hemorrhage (brain bleed) and their caregivers are the most relevant candidates for future therapies informed by this work.

Not a fit: People with non-hemorrhagic strokes, chronic neurodegenerative conditions unrelated to blood–brain barrier damage, or late-stage irreversible brain injury are less likely to benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments that protect or restore the blood–brain barrier after brain bleeds, reducing damage and improving recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies of extracellular matrix proteins have suggested ways to protect the blood–brain barrier, but the specific role of fibroblast-derived laminin in intracerebral hemorrhage is largely novel.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.