Understanding Brain Changes After Injury
Synaptic Vesicular Alterations after Traumatic Brain Injury
This research explores how brain cells change after a traumatic brain injury, which could help us understand memory and attention problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126758 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) experience lasting difficulties with memory, attention, and learning, which can significantly impact their daily lives. This project aims to understand specific changes in how brain cells communicate after a TBI. Researchers are focusing on tiny sacs called synaptic vesicles, which are crucial for sending messages between brain cells, and how their ability to recycle and replenish is affected by injury. By understanding these changes, we hope to find new ways to help improve cognitive function for those living with TBI.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to help individuals experiencing cognitive difficulties after a traumatic brain injury.
Not a fit: Patients without a traumatic brain injury or related cognitive impairments would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target specific brain cell communication issues to improve memory, attention, and learning for TBI patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous preclinical work has shown that altered brain cell communication contributes to cognitive problems after TBI, and this project builds on a newly identified specific change in synaptic vesicles.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carlson, Shaun — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Carlson, Shaun
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.