NIH-funded research R01 grant

How fibroblasts and immune cells interact after brain injury

Official title: Distinct early and late programs of fibroblast - immune crosstalk govern functional responses to brain injury

Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11129898 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how special cells called fibroblasts help the brain heal and work with immune cells after an injury, using mice to find ways to improve treatments for brain injuries and similar issues.

More Brain Injury research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project startJuly 2, 2024
Project endMay 31, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$765,176
NIH project number5R01AI180438-02
Project IDNIH-11129898 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced acute brain injuries or are dealing with neuropsychiatric conditions related to brain inflammation.

Less likely to help

Patients with chronic, stable neurological conditions that do not involve recent brain injuries may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of fibroblasts, which are important cells for healing and immune regulation, in response to brain injuries. It aims to understand how these cells communicate with immune cells during the early and late stages of brain injury, particularly focusing on their behavior and changes in the central nervous system. By studying mouse models, the research will explore how fibroblasts can influence inflammation and healing processes, potentially leading to better treatments for brain injuries and related conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve recovery and outcomes for patients with brain injuries.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding fibroblast behavior in other tissues, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach to brain injury.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Molofsky, Ari B — University of California, San Francisco
  • Study coordinator: Molofsky, Ari B

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.