mitoNEET protein as a target to reduce brain damage after stroke
Official title: mitoNEET as a therapeutic target for mitigating ischemic brain injury following MCAO
Funded at West Virginia University · NIH-11384221 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new treatment approach targets a mitochondrial protein called mitoNEET to limit brain injury after a stroke by improving energy use and protecting vulnerable brain cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $534,376 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129998-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11384221 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults who have suffered an acute ischemic stroke or are at risk of stroke-related brain injury and could participate in future translational efforts.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without stroke or acute brain injury may not benefit from this specific mitochondrial-targeted strategy.
What this research studies
This project explores how mitoNEET helps brain cells survive after a stroke. Using a drug-derived molecule NL-1, researchers aim to modulate mitoNEET activity to reduce iron-related damage and improve mitochondrial function in the affected brain area. The work builds on animal studies showing better brain outcomes when mitoNEET is targeted, with the goal of translating these findings toward human stroke patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lessen brain cell loss and improve recovery after ischemic stroke.
How similar studies have gone: Previous animal studies with mitoNEET-targeted approaches showed neuropathology and functional improvements after stroke, supporting further development.
Where this research is happening
-
West Virginia University
Morgantown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huber, Jason D — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Huber, Jason D
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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.