Understanding how brain injuries progress and finding ways to improve recovery

Spreading Depolarizations and Neuronal Vulnerability

NIH-funded research University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-11133388

This study is looking at how certain brain injuries, like strokes, affect the brain and how a process called spreading depolarization can both hurt and help recovery, with the hope of finding new ways to improve healing and quality of life for patients after an injury.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-11133388 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind acute brain injuries, such as strokes and trauma, focusing on a phenomenon called spreading depolarization (SD). By studying brain slices and animal models, the researchers aim to identify how SD can both harm and potentially help brain recovery. The ultimate goal is to develop interventions that can be applied even after the initial injury, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients. The research seeks to balance the detrimental and beneficial effects of SD to enhance recovery strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced acute brain injuries, such as strokes or traumatic brain injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic brain conditions or those who have not recently experienced an acute brain injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve recovery and survival for patients with acute brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the effects of spreading depolarization, but this specific approach is still being explored and is considered novel.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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 Acquired brain injury
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.