Targeting mitoNEET to reduce brain damage after stroke
mitoNEET as a therapeutic target for mitigating ischemic brain injury following MCAO
Researchers aim to use a drug-like compound that binds a mitochondrial protein called mitoNEET to help people who have had an ischemic stroke recover more brain function.
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 ID | NIH-11144448 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you or a loved one had an ischemic stroke, this work focuses on a mitochondrial protein called mitoNEET that may reduce cell death in the vulnerable penumbra; the team developed a compound named NL-1 based on pioglitazone that improved outcomes in mice and rats. The project uses laboratory models of middle cerebral artery occlusion and molecular studies to understand how mitoNEET controls iron-related damage, energy production, and blood–brain barrier changes after stroke. Results will guide whether mitoNEET-targeting compounds can be refined and moved toward testing in people after stroke.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who have suffered an acute ischemic stroke (especially in the middle cerebral artery territory) and are in the early recovery phase would be the likely candidates for future mitoNEET-targeting trials.
Not a fit: People with hemorrhagic stroke, long-standing chronic stroke without a penumbral phase, or non-ischemic brain injuries are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new treatments that limit brain cell death after ischemic stroke and improve recovery of function.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies in mice and rats with the NL-1 compound and related mitoNEET-targeting approaches have reduced brain damage and improved function, but human testing has not yet occurred.
Where this research is happening
Morgantown, United States
- West Virginia University — Morgantown, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huber, Jason D — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Huber, Jason D
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 below.