Understanding brain activity during bladder filling to improve overactive bladder diagnosis

Measurement of Neuroexcitation during Bladder Filling: A Novel Metric for Overactive Bladder Phenotyping

NIH-funded research Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10474965

This study is looking at how the brains of people with overactive bladder respond when their bladders fill up, using a special technology to see brain activity, so we can find better ways to understand and treat different types of this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project IDNIH-10474965 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brain responds during bladder filling in individuals with overactive bladder (OAB), a condition characterized by a strong urge to urinate. By using a novel, office-based neuroimaging technology called functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), the study aims to identify specific patterns of brain activation associated with OAB. Participants will undergo a hydration protocol while their brain activity is monitored, helping researchers to better understand the neurophysiological aspects of this condition. The goal is to develop improved methods for classifying different subtypes of OAB, which could lead to more personalized treatment options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing symptoms of overactive bladder, including urinary urgency.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience urinary urgency or have other unrelated bladder conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatments for individuals suffering from overactive bladder.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using neuroimaging techniques to study bladder function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Richmond, 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.
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.