Investigating the effects of DHA therapy on brain recovery after injury in young rats
Microglial Function and Neurologic Outcome in Rat Pups after Experimental Traumatic Brain Injury: Effects of Timing and Duration of Docosahexaenoic Acid Therapy
This study is looking at how a special fatty acid called DHA might help young brains heal better after a traumatic brain injury, and it could lead to new treatments for kids who have experienced similar injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10618397 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fatty acid important for brain health, can help improve recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI) in young rats. The study examines the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, in managing inflammation and promoting healing after TBI. By administering DHA at different times and durations, researchers aim to determine the optimal conditions for enhancing brain recovery and reducing long-term neurological disabilities. The findings could provide insights into potential therapies for children suffering from TBI.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be children who have experienced traumatic brain injuries.
Not a fit: Patients who have not suffered a traumatic brain injury or those with pre-existing neurological conditions may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving recovery and reducing disabilities in children with traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with DHA in promoting brain recovery in animal models, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schober, Michelle Elena — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Schober, Michelle Elena
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 below.