NIH-funded research R03 grant

Identifying MRI markers of thinking problems in autoimmune brain inflammation

Official title: Identifying imaging biomarkers of cognitive impairment in autoimmune encephalitis

Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-11384749 · Data updated 2026-11-12

A small study will look for MRI signs that relate to memory problems in people with autoimmune limbic encephalitis.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project startAugust 6, 2025
Project endJuly 31, 2027
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$80,500
NIH project number5R03NS144788-02
Project IDNIH-11384749 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Adults with autoimmune limbic encephalitis and related cognitive symptoms who are undergoing MRI evaluation.

Less likely to help

Patients without ALE or without cognitive symptoms may not directly benefit.

What this research studies

Autoimmune limbic encephalitis (ALE) inflames the brain’s memory areas and often leaves lasting cognitive trouble. This project will use advanced MRI techniques to find brain changes that correspond with cognitive symptoms in ALE patients and compare them with healthy individuals. The goal is to identify markers that could guide treatment decisions about continuing or adjusting immunosuppression. The study is designed for a short-term funding period and focuses on translating MRI findings into clinically useful information for patients. Participants will undergo MRI scans and cognitive assessments as part of routine care under close supervision.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help doctors tailor treatments for ALE and provide clearer information about prognosis for patients.

How similar studies have gone: Prior imaging studies in autoimmune brain disorders have identified MRI markers, but reliable ALE-specific markers are not yet established.

Where this research is happening

  • Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
    Cleveland, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Kunchok, Amy — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
  • Study coordinator: Kunchok, Amy

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.