Understanding blood vessel problems and brain shrinkage after severe brain injuries

Investigating cerebrovascular dysfunction and cerebral atrophy in severe traumatic brain injury

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA · NIH-10742569

This study is looking at how serious brain injuries can cause problems with blood vessels and brain shrinkage, which might lead to issues like Alzheimer's, and it’s testing a special treatment to see if it can help repair those blood vessels and support recovery for people with these injuries.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATHENS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10742569 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how severe traumatic brain injuries (sTBI) lead to blood vessel dysfunction and brain shrinkage, which can contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The researchers will use a preclinical rat model to explore how engineered Chondroitin Sulfate (eCS) matrices can help repair blood vessels and prevent further brain damage. By examining the permeability of blood vessels and the types of immune cells involved, the study aims to develop new therapies that could improve recovery for patients with severe brain injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced severe traumatic brain injuries and are at risk for progressive brain damage.

Not a fit: Patients with mild brain injuries or those who do not have a history of traumatic brain injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent brain damage and improve recovery in patients with severe traumatic brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, previous research has shown promise in using engineered materials for tissue repair, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

ATHENS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: cerebral vascular disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.