How adult brain stem cells support memory and protect the hippocampus
Regulation of adult hippocampal function by the neural stem and progenitor cell secretome
['FUNDING_R01'] · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11238537
This research looks at whether proteins released by adult brain stem cells help protect the hippocampus and support memory in adults, including after brain injury.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11238537 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team studies special stem cells in the adult hippocampus that release proteins into their neighborhood. They will identify which proteins are made using RNA sequencing and tag newly made proteins to track their local actions. In lab models they will test whether a key protein, VEGF, reduces overactive nerve cells, preserves memory function, and protects tissue from injury. The work combines cell and animal experiments performed at Ohio State and may point the way toward future patient-focused therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with memory problems tied to hippocampal damage or people who have experienced acquired brain injury would be the most likely candidates for future clinical work based on this research.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate clinical treatments or those with conditions unrelated to the hippocampus should not expect direct benefit from this laboratory-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could point to new ways to protect memory and promote repair after hippocampal injury using stem-cell-derived proteins or their targets.
How similar studies have performed: Related animal studies suggest VEGF and other stem-cell secreted factors can protect neurons and reduce hyperexcitability, but moving these results into human therapies is still at an early, experimental stage.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY — Columbus, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KIRBY, ELIZABETH DIANA — OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KIRBY, ELIZABETH DIANA
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.
Conditions: Acquired brain injury