Investigating how mild traumatic brain injury affects pain sensitivity and light sensitivity in children.
Official title: The trigeminal nociceptive-pain pathway in pediatric mTBI: peripheral and central contributions to photophobia
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10894836 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how mild brain injuries affect kids, especially how it relates to facial sensations and light sensitivity, to help find better ways to diagnose and treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $492,782 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034135-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894836 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who have experienced a mild traumatic brain injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a mild traumatic brain injury or are outside the age range of 0-21 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the effects of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) on children, particularly how it impacts the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensations in the face and eyes. The study will utilize advanced techniques such as quantitative sensory testing, corneal nerve microscopy, and brain imaging to explore the relationship between mTBI and symptoms like sensitivity to light (photophobia). By examining both peripheral and central nervous system changes, the research aims to identify potential diagnostic markers and improve treatment strategies for children suffering from head trauma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnosis and treatment options for children experiencing pain and light sensitivity after a concussion.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurological impacts of mTBI, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moulton, Eric Alan — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Moulton, Eric Alan
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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.