Investigating a hydrogel to improve recovery after stroke
Official title: Post-Stroke Neurovascular Function and Repair within a Porous Hydrogel
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11013313 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special gel can help stroke patients recover by encouraging the growth of new blood vessels and nerve connections in the brain, and it involves testing this gel in mice to see how it helps heal brain damage.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $44,766 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS135993-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013313 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have experienced an ischemic stroke and are seeking new therapeutic options for recovery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had a stroke or those with other neurological conditions unrelated to stroke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a special biocompatible hydrogel can aid recovery in stroke patients by promoting the growth of new blood vessels and nerve connections in the brain. The study will involve injecting this hydrogel into the area of the brain affected by a stroke in mice, allowing researchers to observe how it helps repair the damaged tissue. By using advanced imaging techniques, the research aims to track the healing process and assess how rehabilitation activities can enhance the effects of the hydrogel. The ultimate goal is to find new ways to improve recovery outcomes for stroke patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that significantly enhance recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biocompatible materials for enhancing recovery after stroke, indicating that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rathbun, Elle Mai — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Rathbun, Elle Mai
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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.