Investigating how mitochondrial function affects brain injury in newborns

Mitochondrial proton leak and neonatal brain injury

['FUNDING_R01'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11092234

This study is looking at how problems with tiny parts of cells called mitochondria can affect brain injuries in newborns who don't get enough oxygen, and it hopes to find new ways to help protect their developing brains.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11092234 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to brain injuries caused by hypoxia-ischemia in newborns. The study examines the differences in mitochondrial behavior between neonates and adults, particularly how certain proteins influence cell death during brain injury. By using neonatal animal models, the research aims to identify new therapeutic approaches that could protect the developing brain from injury. The methodology includes assessing the biophysical properties of mitochondrial membranes and testing pharmacological interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns or infants who have experienced hypoxia-ischemia or are at risk for brain injury.

Not a fit: Patients who are adults or those who have not experienced hypoxia-ischemia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce brain injury and disability in newborns affected by hypoxia-ischemia.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on mitochondrial dysfunction in adults, this specific approach focusing on neonates is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.