Investigating a new treatment for chronic complex traumatic brain injury using a neurosteroid.

Novel Regenerative Therapeutic in Chronic Complex TBI

NIH-funded research Durham VA Medical Center · NIH-11174309

This study is testing a natural substance called Allopregnanolone to see if it can help veterans with chronic traumatic brain injury feel better by reducing symptoms like depression and pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDurham VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11174309 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the use of Allopregnanolone (ALLO), a naturally occurring neurosteroid, to treat chronic complex traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study aims to conduct a Phase 2 randomized controlled trial specifically in Veterans suffering from TBI, assessing the effectiveness and safety of ALLO in alleviating symptoms such as depression and pain that often accompany this condition. By replenishing ALLO levels, the research seeks to improve brain health and overall quality of life for affected individuals. The trial will gather critical data that could pave the way for a new therapeutic approach to managing TBI and its associated challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans diagnosed with chronic complex traumatic brain injury who may also experience symptoms of depression and pain.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have chronic complex TBI or those without associated symptoms like depression and pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option that significantly improves the quality of life for patients with chronic complex TBI.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with neurosteroids in similar contexts, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.