Understanding how brain injury affects the blood-brain barrier and cognitive function
Official title: Mechanisms of Chronic Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction after Traumatic Brain Injury
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11047194 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a traumatic brain injury can affect the brain's protective barrier over time and how this might lead to memory problems, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to help people recover better after such injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $404,100 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS134799-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047194 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 and are at risk for cognitive decline or dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or do not have cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and its role in cognitive decline, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The study focuses on the mechanisms that lead to chronic BBB dysfunction and how this may contribute to neurodegeneration. By examining specific molecular pathways, such as the RIPK1-RIPK3-IL-1R1 signaling, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could mitigate cognitive deficits following TBI. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how TBI impacts brain health over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect cognitive function in individuals who have suffered a traumatic brain injury.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways for neuroprotection and cognitive preservation after brain injuries.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whalen, Michael J — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Whalen, Michael J
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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.