Finding new treatments for brain injuries caused by abuse in young children
Identifying Potential Therapeutic Targets for Abusive Head Trauma
This study is looking at how brain injuries from abusive head trauma affect young children, using a piglet model to learn more about the damage caused by seizures and bleeding, with the hope of finding better treatments to help kids recover.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10906170 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain damage patterns in young children resulting from abusive head trauma, specifically focusing on a condition known as hemispheric hypodensity. By using a piglet model that mimics the clinical characteristics of this injury, the researchers aim to understand how seizures and hemorrhage contribute to brain damage. The study will explore the age-dependent effects of these injuries and seek to identify potential therapeutic targets to prevent further tissue damage. The ultimate goal is to develop effective treatments that can improve outcomes for affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have suffered from abusive head trauma or related brain injuries.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or who have not experienced abusive head trauma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce brain damage and improve recovery for children who have experienced abusive head trauma.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding brain injuries and developing therapeutic strategies.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Costine-Bartell, Beth a — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Costine-Bartell, Beth a
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.