Investigating blood biomarkers and risk factors for brain injury in Ugandan children

Blood-Biomarkers and Risk Factors of Acute Brain Injury associated with Neurodisability in Ugandan Children [BRAIN-Child]

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10682592

This study is looking at how serious brain injuries, like those from cerebral malaria and trauma, impact kids' thinking skills, and it aims to find certain blood markers that can help predict if children aged 5 to 15 might have problems with their brain function, especially in places where these injuries are more common.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10682592 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how acute brain injuries, such as those caused by cerebral malaria and traumatic brain injury, affect children's cognitive functions. It aims to identify specific blood biomarkers that can predict the risk of neurocognitive impairment in children aged 5 to 15 years. By analyzing proteins in the blood that indicate brain injury, the study seeks to develop reliable, noninvasive tools for early prognosis. The research is particularly relevant in low- and middle-income countries where the burden of such injuries is significantly higher.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 5 to 15 years who have experienced acute brain injuries, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 5 to 15 years or those who have not experienced acute brain injuries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early diagnosis and treatment strategies for children suffering from brain injuries, potentially reducing long-term cognitive impairments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have successfully identified biomarkers for brain injury in similar contexts, indicating a promising avenue for this research.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.