Improving spinal cord function through targeted stimulation
Spinal Cord Associative Plasticity
This study is looking at how special stimulation of the spinal cord can help people with cervical spinal cord injuries move better by improving their nerve connections and muscle control.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10909104 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how targeted stimulation of the spinal cord can enhance neural connections and improve motor function in individuals with cervical spinal cord injuries. By using both non-invasive and invasive stimulation techniques, the study aims to strengthen spinal excitability and improve reflexes and muscle control. The approach is based on the principle that paired stimulation can lead to lasting changes in how the nervous system operates, potentially benefiting patients with impaired motor function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cervical spinal cord injuries who experience impaired motor function.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries at levels other than cervical or those with complete paralysis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant improvements in motor function and quality of life for patients with cervical spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar stimulation techniques in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carmel, Jason Brant — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Carmel, Jason Brant
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 below.