Identifying biological markers to predict recovery from concussions in adolescents

Poly-omic predictors of symptom duration and recovery for adolescent concussion

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11004038

This study is looking at how certain markers in saliva can help us understand how long it might take for teens with mild brain injuries to feel better, so we can give them the best care possible.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hershey, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004038 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific biological markers in saliva can help predict the duration of symptoms and recovery in adolescents who have experienced mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs). By analyzing non-coding ribonucleic acids (ncRNAs) in saliva, the study aims to provide a more accurate assessment of brain recovery compared to traditional symptom surveys. The research will involve enrolling 750 adolescents aged 13-18 who have suffered an mTBI and measuring their ncRNA levels at various time points after the injury. The goal is to develop a biologic test that can guide individualized treatment recommendations for these young patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 13-18 who have recently experienced a mild traumatic brain injury.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 13-18 or those who have not suffered a mild traumatic brain injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective management of concussion symptoms in adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biological markers to predict recovery from concussions, making this approach both innovative and grounded in earlier findings.

Where this research is happening

Hershey, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.