Investigating the role of IGF-1 in brain injury in newborns

IGF-1 and Innate Immunity in Neonatal Brain Injury

NIH-funded research Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10980077

This study is looking at how a substance called IGF-1 might help newborns with brain injuries from bleeding in the brain, by seeing if it can support the growth of important brain cells and improve their recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10980077 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) affects the development of brain cells in newborns who experience intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), a type of brain injury. The study examines the relationship between inflammation caused by IVH and the production of IGF-1 by microglia, the brain's immune cells. By exploring how IGF-1 supplementation may support the health of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs), the research aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes for affected infants. The approach includes analyzing cellular responses to inflammatory factors and testing IGF-1 as a treatment option.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns under 11 years old who have experienced intraventricular hemorrhage.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of brain injury or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve brain development and reduce long-term neurological disabilities in infants affected by brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using IGF-1 for neuroprotection in other forms of brain injury, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, 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.