Understanding how a specific potassium channel affects recovery from spinal cord injuries
Official title: Elucidating the role of kcnn1 in recovery from spinal cord injury
Funded at East Carolina University · NIH-11077810 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene affects healing after spinal cord injuries, using zebrafish to see if changing this gene or using a special medication can help improve recovery, with the hope of finding new treatments for people with spinal cord injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Carolina University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greenville, United States) |
| Project start | April 22, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $75,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R03NS136719-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077810 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries and are seeking innovative therapeutic options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spinal cord injuries who are not responsive to experimental treatments or who have other complicating health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the kcnn1 gene, which encodes a potassium channel, in the recovery process following spinal cord injuries. Using zebrafish models, the researchers will create genetically modified fish to study how changes in kcnn1 expression influence spinal cord development and recovery. They will also explore the effects of a potassium channel inhibitor, 4-aminopyridine, to see if it can enhance recovery outcomes. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic strategies for spinal cord injuries and related neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve recovery from spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using potassium channel modulation for recovery in animal models, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
East Carolina University
Greenville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mruk, Karen — East Carolina University
- Study coordinator: Mruk, Karen
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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.