Investigating how brain waves affect memory after traumatic brain injury
Official title: Defining the remote effects of cortical spreading depolarizations on hippocampus after traumatic brain injury
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-11012788 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain waves that happen after a head injury might affect the hippocampus, which is important for memory, and how this could impact recovery for people with traumatic brain injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $534,197 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129922-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012788 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who have experienced a traumatic brain injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain injuries that are not classified as traumatic or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of cortical spreading depolarizations (CSDs), which are waves of electrical activity in the brain, on the hippocampus following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study aims to understand whether these brain waves cause damage beyond their immediate area and how they contribute to poor recovery outcomes in TBI patients. Using experimental models, researchers will assess changes in brain function, structure, and the generation of new neurons. The findings could lead to new insights into TBI treatment and recovery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for patients recovering from traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of brain activity can lead to significant advancements in treatment for brain injuries, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ngwenya, Laura Benjamin — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Ngwenya, Laura Benjamin
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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.