Helping the brain rewire movement and touch areas after stroke
Engineering neuroplasticity using volitional control of activity-dependent optogenetic stimulation in macaque sensorimotor cortex
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11375230
Researchers are trying a focused brain-stimulation method to help people regain movement and sensation after a stroke.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11375230 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses advanced, activity-linked brain stimulation in nonhuman primates to see if targeted signals can strengthen or create connections between touch and movement areas. The team first maps how sensorimotor regions are naturally connected and then delivers closed-loop stimulation tied to the animal's own brain activity. They will test the approach both in healthy cortex and after an induced ischemic lesion to mimic stroke, while measuring behavior and brain electrical signals to track recovery and rewiring. Results will show whether the method can drive meaningful cortical reorganization that could guide future human therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: The eventual human candidates would be people with motor and sensory deficits from an ischemic stroke affecting the sensorimotor cortex.
Not a fit: People whose problems come from non-stroke causes, very widespread brain damage, or medical conditions that prevent brain stimulation are unlikely to benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new brain-stimulation treatments that restore movement and sensation after stroke.
How similar studies have performed: Other brain-stimulation approaches have shown promise in promoting recovery after stroke, but closed-loop optogenetic control in primates is a novel and more precise step toward translation.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YAZDAN SHAHMORAD, AZADEH — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: YAZDAN SHAHMORAD, AZADEH
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.