Identifying brain changes in veterans with mild traumatic brain injury using advanced MRI techniques

Developing MRI Biomarkers of Myelin and Iron in Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM · NIH-10980524

This study is looking at veterans who have had mild brain injuries from combat blasts, and it aims to use new MRI techniques to get a clearer picture of changes in their brain that might affect their thinking and emotions, helping to improve how we diagnose and treat them.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10980524 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on veterans who have experienced mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), particularly those affected by combat-related blasts. It aims to develop advanced MRI techniques to better visualize and assess changes in myelin and iron levels in the brain, which are often overlooked by conventional imaging methods. By improving the detection of these changes, the research seeks to enhance the understanding of mTBI and its long-term effects on cognitive and emotional health. The study will involve advanced imaging protocols that could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment strategies for affected veterans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced mild traumatic brain injuries, particularly those related to combat.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced mild traumatic brain injuries or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment options for veterans suffering from the effects of mild traumatic brain injury.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to assess brain injuries, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

SAN DIEGO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: axon injury, axonal injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.