Identifying brain injury markers in critically ill children on ECMO.
Official title: Biomarkers of Brain Injury in Critically-Ill Children on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10545733 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to find new ways to check for brain injuries in kids who are getting a special treatment called ECMO for serious heart and lung problems, so doctors can better protect their brains and help them recover.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2019 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $599,113 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS106292-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10545733 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill children who are undergoing ECMO treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not receiving ECMO or who are older than 21 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a panel of biomarkers to monitor brain injury in children receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a life-saving treatment for severe heart and lung failure. The study aims to identify children at risk for neurological complications and to diagnose brain injuries that may not be visible through traditional imaging methods. By analyzing circulating markers of brain injury and inflammation, the research seeks to provide real-time feedback for neuroprotective interventions in the intensive care unit. Ultimately, the goal is to improve the neurodevelopmental outcomes of these critically ill children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better monitoring and early intervention for brain injuries in critically ill children, potentially reducing long-term neurological disabilities.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using biomarkers for monitoring brain injury, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bembea, Melania Maria — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Bembea, Melania Maria
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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.