Identifying biomarkers to predict brain damage after traumatic brain injury.
Official title: BCCMA: Predicting TBI Pathology with Visual and Blood-based Biomarkers
Funded at Iowa City VA Medical Center · NIH-10951533 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for signs in the eye and blood that can help predict long-term brain problems after a traumatic brain injury, so we can better understand and treat people who have experienced TBI.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa City VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2023 |
| Project end | September 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX005855-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951533 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include veterans and individuals who have experienced traumatic brain injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced traumatic brain injuries or those with pre-existing neurological conditions unrelated to TBI may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to find reliable biomarkers that can predict long-term brain dysfunction following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study will explore how changes in the retina can reflect neurodegeneration in the brain, and it will also investigate blood-based biomarkers that may correlate with these changes. By collaborating across multiple sites, the research will utilize advanced imaging techniques and analyze various biological samples to enhance the understanding of TBI effects. This approach could lead to improved monitoring and treatment strategies for individuals affected by TBI.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment options for patients suffering from the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for monitoring brain injuries, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Iowa City VA Medical Center
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harper, Matthew M. — Iowa City VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Harper, Matthew M.
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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.