Investigating the effects of a nasal treatment on brain metabolism and inflammation after traumatic brain injury in children
Official title: Effect of intranasal HB-EGF treatment on brain glucose metabolism and inflammation after TBI in the developing brain
Funded at Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger · NIH-11163140 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a nasal treatment called HB-EGF can help kids recover better after a brain injury by improving how their brains use energy and reducing inflammation, which can help prevent long-term problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $453,970 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS131048-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11163140 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults who have experienced moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild traumatic brain injuries or those who are not within the pediatric age range may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the impact of intranasal HB-EGF treatment on brain glucose metabolism and inflammation following traumatic brain injury (TBI) in children. The study aims to address the metabolic crisis and inflammation that often occur after TBI, which can lead to long-term cognitive and physical disabilities. By administering HB-EGF, a neurotrophic growth factor, the researchers hope to enhance mitochondrial function and reduce inflammation in the brain. The approach involves assessing how this treatment can improve energy production and overall brain health in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new therapeutic option that significantly improves recovery outcomes for children with traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar neurotrophic treatments, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
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Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scafidi, Joseph — Hugo W. Moser Res Inst Kennedy Krieger
- Study coordinator: Scafidi, Joseph
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.