Investigating imaging markers in degenerative cervical myelopathy
Official title: Structural and functional imaging markers in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10910121 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how degenerative cervical myelopathy affects the spinal cord in people over 55, using advanced imaging to help doctors figure out who might benefit from surgery and improve treatment decisions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $520,747 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129852-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910121 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 55 years old diagnosed with degenerative cervical myelopathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute spinal injuries or those under 55 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), a condition that commonly affects individuals over 55 years old and leads to significant spinal injury. The study aims to improve the understanding of how the spinal cord is affected by ongoing degeneration using advanced imaging techniques, including functional MRI. By identifying specific markers in the spinal cord, the research seeks to better predict which patients will benefit from surgical interventions and improve clinical decision-making. Patients may undergo imaging assessments to evaluate their condition and potential treatment responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate predictions of treatment outcomes for patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to monitor spinal cord injury, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Zachary — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Smith, Zachary
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.