Investigating how bilirubin and a specific receptor can help recover from brain bleeding.

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor and bilirubin as therapeutic target for ICH

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11097274

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the brain help clean up harmful substances after a brain bleed, and it’s exploring how a natural antioxidant can help protect these cells, with the hope of finding better ways to help people recover their brain function after such injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11097274 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the role of microglia and macrophages in clearing toxic components from the brain after an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). It explores how bilirubin, a natural antioxidant, and the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) can protect these immune cells during the cleanup process. By understanding how these elements interact, the research aims to enhance the recovery of brain function following ICH. Patients may benefit from new therapeutic strategies that improve the brain's healing process after such injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced an intracerebral hemorrhage.

Not a fit: Patients who have not suffered from an intracerebral hemorrhage or have other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that enhance recovery and reduce long-term damage after brain bleeding.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to enhance recovery after brain injuries, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.