Understanding how brain signals can help recover patients from coma
Investigating the Thalamic Regulation of Neuro-Glio-Vascular Restoration Underlying Acute Coma Recovery with Multi-Modal fMRI in a Brainstem Coma Rodent Model
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11093463
This study is looking at how certain brain connections can help people recover from a coma after a serious brain injury, using rats to learn more about how brain cells work together during the early recovery phase, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients heal better.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11093463 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that support recovery from acute coma, particularly focusing on the role of neuro-glio-vascular restoration. Using a rat model of brainstem coma, the study aims to explore how specific brain circuits, particularly the thalamocortical circuit, can be activated to promote recovery. By employing advanced techniques like multi-modal fMRI and calcium recordings, researchers will analyze how astrocytes and other brain cells contribute to recovery during critical early hours after injury. This work seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets that could improve outcomes for patients who have suffered severe brain injuries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced severe brainstem injuries resulting in coma.
Not a fit: Patients with comas caused by non-brainstem injuries or those who have been in a coma for extended periods may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly enhance recovery chances for patients in acute coma.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding brain recovery mechanisms in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YU, XIN — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: YU, XIN
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 below.