Understanding Brain Recovery After Stroke Using Light Stimulation

Optogenetic Approaches to Study Post-Stroke Recovery Mechanisms

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10991308

This research explores how specific brain connections can be repaired after a stroke to help people regain lost abilities.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991308 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Stroke is a serious condition that affects how different parts of the brain communicate, leading to lost functions. We are looking into how the brain naturally remodels itself after a stroke and how we might encourage this process. Using a technique called optogenetics, which involves light stimulation, we aim to activate key brain circuits. Our goal is to understand which brain connections are most important for recovery and how we can help restore them.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals who have experienced a stroke and are seeking improved recovery options.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of stroke or related brain injuries would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that help stroke survivors recover more function and improve their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Our lab has previously shown that targeted light stimulation can activate brain plasticity and promote recovery in models of stroke, suggesting promise for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Conditions Brain DiseasesBrain Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.