Investigating how a protein affects brain recovery after childhood concussions

Caveolin-1 contributes to the long-term function and structure of the neurovascular unit after juvenile concussion

NIH-funded research University of California Riverside · NIH-11225782

This study is looking at how mild brain injuries in kids can affect their thinking skills as they grow up, and it’s exploring a special protein that might help the brain heal better after these injuries, with the goal of finding new ways to support brain health for young people who have had concussions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Riverside NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Riverside, United States)
Project IDNIH-11225782 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the long-term effects of mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) in children, particularly how these injuries can lead to cognitive decline and dementia as they age. The study will explore the role of a specific protein, Caveolin-1, in the brain's recovery process after such injuries. By examining cellular and molecular changes in the neurovascular unit, researchers aim to develop new therapeutic strategies to improve brain health following juvenile concussions. The approach includes using advanced imaging techniques and targeted treatments to assess the impact of Caveolin-1 on brain function over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 who have suffered a mild traumatic brain injury.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a concussion or those over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance recovery and prevent cognitive decline in children who have experienced concussions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting Caveolin-1 for recovery after strokes, suggesting potential for success in similar approaches for juvenile concussions.

Where this research is happening

Riverside, 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.