Understanding how brain injury affects immune responses

Novel mechanisms suppressing the pro-resolving phenotype of peripheral innate immunity following traumatic brain injury

NIH-funded research Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-11065508

This study is looking at how the body's immune system responds after a traumatic brain injury and how certain signals can help improve healing and reduce inflammation, which could lead to better treatments for patients recovering from such injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Blacksburg, United States)
Project IDNIH-11065508 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of peripheral innate immunity in the aftermath of traumatic brain injury (TBI). It focuses on how certain signaling pathways, particularly EphA4/mTOR, influence the immune response and recovery process. By studying the behavior of immune cells derived from the blood, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to improved healing and reduced inflammation after brain trauma. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform new treatments targeting immune responses following TBI.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury and are experiencing ongoing symptoms or complications.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic neurological conditions unrelated to traumatic brain injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance recovery and reduce complications after traumatic brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in brain injury, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Blacksburg, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.