Non-invasive therapy to reduce brain damage after a stroke

Non-invasive mitochondrial modulation therapy for ischemic stroke

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11015014

This study is testing a new, gentle therapy that uses special light to help protect the brain after a stroke by improving how brain cells work, and it's designed to be safe and easy for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015014 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new therapy that uses near-infrared light to modulate mitochondrial activity in the brain during the critical phase after a stroke. By targeting the mitochondria, the therapy aims to reduce the harmful production of reactive oxygen species that can occur when blood flow is restored to the brain. The approach is non-invasive, meaning it does not require surgical procedures, making it potentially safer and easier for patients. The goal is to limit the damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion injury, which is a common complication following a stroke.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced an ischemic stroke and are within the appropriate time frame for intervention.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a stroke or those with other types of brain injuries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment that significantly reduces brain damage and improves recovery outcomes for stroke patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using light to modulate mitochondrial activity is innovative, similar strategies targeting mitochondrial function have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.