NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving cognitive and balance functions through targeted training in a mouse model of brain injury

Official title: Recruitment of Cerebellar Circuits with Balance Training for Cognitive Rehabilitation in a Mouse Model of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Funded at VA Puget Sound Healthcare System · NIH-10929450 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how balance training might help improve thinking skills and recovery in mice with mild brain injuries, which could lead to new treatments for veterans and others who have experienced similar injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Puget Sound Healthcare System
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project startOctober 1, 2023
Project endSeptember 30, 2027
Funding year2025
NIH project number5I01RX003829-02
Project IDNIH-10929450 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced mild traumatic brain injuries, particularly veterans.

Less likely to help

Patients with severe traumatic brain injuries or those with advanced neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how balance training can enhance cognitive rehabilitation in a mouse model that simulates mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study focuses on the cerebellum, a brain region crucial for both balance and cognitive functions, particularly in the context of TBI, which is common among veterans. By examining the effects of balance training on cognitive performance and balance recovery, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could be translated to human patients. The methodology involves assessing changes in brain activity and behavior in response to specific training regimens.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new rehabilitation strategies that improve cognitive and balance functions in individuals affected by traumatic brain injuries.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in using balance training to improve cognitive functions in both animal models and human subjects, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
    Seattle, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Carlson, Erik Sean — VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
  • Study coordinator: Carlson, Erik Sean

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.