NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating how mitochondria contribute to brain damage after injury

Official title: The cell-specific neurodegenerative potential of mitochondria post-traumatic brain injury

Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-10988836 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a traumatic brain injury can mess with the tiny power plants in our cells, which might lead to problems like Alzheimer's, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how TBI affects the brain and finding better ways to help those who are struggling with its long-term effects.

More Brain Injury research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Cincinnati
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$158,247
NIH project number1R21AG085052-01A1
Project IDNIH-10988836 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury and are at risk for developing neurodegenerative conditions.

Less likely to help

Patients who have not suffered a traumatic brain injury or do not exhibit any neurodegenerative symptoms may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research explores how traumatic brain injury (TBI) affects mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, leading to neurodegenerative changes. It aims to understand the specific ways in which mitochondrial dysfunction can trigger inflammation and neuronal damage, potentially resulting in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. By analyzing human data and conducting preliminary experiments, the researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms behind these processes and identify potential biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment. This work is crucial for developing effective interventions for individuals suffering from the long-term effects of TBI.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new diagnostic tools and treatments for patients with traumatic brain injuries and related neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant role in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Cincinnati
    Cincinnati, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Liaudanskaya, Volha — University of Cincinnati
  • Study coordinator: Liaudanskaya, Volha

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.