The role of platelets in brain injury and inflammation
Official title: Platelets and Microvascular Dysfunction in Traumatic Brain Injury
Funded at Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center · NIH-10923658 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how platelets, which are tiny cells in your blood, can cause inflammation and problems with blood flow after a traumatic brain injury, especially in veterans, to find new ways to help improve recovery and reduce long-lasting symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 1IK2BX006462-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10923658 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced traumatic brain injury and are suffering from persistent symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced traumatic brain injury or those with chronic neurological conditions unrelated to TBI may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how platelets contribute to inflammation and vascular dysfunction following traumatic brain injury (TBI). It aims to understand the mechanisms that lead to persistent symptoms in TBI patients, particularly among veterans. Using advanced imaging techniques and a controlled injury model, the study will explore the relationship between platelet activation and blood-brain barrier disruption. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve long-term outcomes for individuals affected by TBI.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent long-term complications from traumatic brain injury.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting platelet function can improve outcomes in other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Courson, Justin a — Michael E Debakey VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Courson, Justin 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.