Improving recovery after spinal cord injuries by targeting a specific protein.
Official title: Promoting tissue repair and functional recovery after spinal cord injury by targeting the microtubule regulatory protein Fidgetin-like 2.
Funded at Microcures, INC. · NIH-11067988 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people recover better after spinal cord injuries by using a special treatment that targets a protein called Fidgetin-like 2, which could help nerves grow and improve movement and bladder control.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Microcures, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Cruz, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $458,154 |
| NIH project number | 1R41NS137941-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067988 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals who have experienced acute spinal cord injuries and are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic spinal cord injuries or those who do not have access to the specific treatment being tested may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how targeting the protein Fidgetin-like 2 (FL2) can enhance recovery after spinal cord injuries (SCI). The approach involves using a nanoparticle-encapsulated formulation of siRNA to reduce FL2 levels at the injury site, which has shown promise in preliminary studies with animal models. By applying this treatment, the researchers aim to promote axonal growth and improve locomotor function, bladder control, and overall recovery in affected individuals. The study will assess the effectiveness of this treatment in a controlled animal model before considering potential applications in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve recovery and quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in using similar approaches to enhance nerve regeneration, making this research a promising continuation of that work.
Where this research is happening
-
Microcures, INC.
Santa Cruz, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baker, Lisa Ann — Microcures, INC.
- Study coordinator: Baker, Lisa Ann
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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.