Understanding how brain injuries affect behavior and recovery
Official title: Molecular and neural mechanisms associated with injury and recovery from traumatic brain injury
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-10852904 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how injuries to the front part of the brain affect how we think and feel, especially in people with mild or severe traumatic brain injuries, and it aims to find ways to help improve their mood and attention.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5IK2BX006125-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10852904 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury, particularly those with frontal lobe involvement.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain injuries not involving the frontal lobe or those with pre-existing psychiatric conditions unrelated to TBI may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on brain function and behavior, particularly focusing on how injuries to the frontal lobe disrupt communication between brain regions involved in reward processing. By examining both severe and mild TBIs, the study aims to identify the biological mechanisms that lead to behavioral issues such as depression, anxiety, and attention deficits. The research utilizes animal models to explore how these injuries impact neural connections and to test potential treatments that could restore normal brain function and improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve recovery and quality of life for individuals suffering from the effects of traumatic brain injury.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the neural mechanisms of TBI and developing interventions, but this specific approach focusing on reward-guided behavior is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koloski, Miranda Francoeur — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Koloski, Miranda Francoeur
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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.