Investigating the effects of traumatic brain injury in high-risk populations
Official title: A longitudinal study of traumatic brain injury in a high-risk population
Funded at Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-11098706 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | August 4, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $670,150 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126742-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098706 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 35 and older who have experienced traumatic brain injuries and are currently incarcerated.
✕Less likely to help
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.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kiehl, Kent a — Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Kiehl, Kent a
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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.