Investigating how fatty acid oxidation affects recovery after pediatric head injuries
Role of fatty acid oxidation after pediatric head injury
This study is looking at how the brain of children with traumatic brain injury can use fats for energy when sugar isn't working well, and it hopes to find ways to help the brain heal better by boosting this fat energy process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10574508 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of fatty acid oxidation in the brain following traumatic brain injury (TBI) in children. It aims to explore how the brain can utilize fatty acids for energy when glucose metabolism is impaired after injury. By using a pediatric model of severe brain injury, the researchers will assess the brain's ability to oxidize fatty acids and evaluate whether enhancing this process can improve brain function and reduce injury. The study will involve pharmacological and genetic approaches to boost fatty acid oxidation and measure the resulting effects on brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who have experienced a traumatic brain injury.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or are over the age of 21 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance recovery and brain function in children who have suffered traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Emerging evidence suggests that enhancing fatty acid oxidation may be a promising approach, although this specific application in pediatric TBI is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scafidi, Susanna — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Scafidi, Susanna
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 below.