Investigating the effects of traumatic brain injury in high-risk populations

A longitudinal study of traumatic brain injury in a high-risk population

NIH-funded research Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-11098706

This study is looking at how traumatic brain injuries affect people in prison, especially those who have struggled with substance abuse, by using mobile MRI machines to take brain scans and gather health information over several years to see how their thinking and behavior change.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLovelace Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098706 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) among individuals in forensic settings, particularly those with a history of substance abuse and other risk factors. By utilizing mobile MRI units, the study collects detailed neuroimaging and clinical data from incarcerated individuals, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of cognitive impairments and behavioral outcomes. The research aims to follow a cohort of 300 participants aged 35 and older over several years to identify patterns and predictors of cognitive decline related to TBI.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 35 and older who have experienced traumatic brain injuries and are currently incarcerated.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of traumatic brain injury or are not part of the forensic population may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and support for individuals with traumatic brain injuries, particularly in forensic populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant correlations between traumatic brain injury and adverse behavioral outcomes, suggesting that this approach is grounded in established findings.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.