NIH-funded research P01 program project

Understanding how Chiari Type I Malformation affects brain development

Official title: Redefining Chiari Type I Malformation and its Impact on Brain Development

Funded at Washington University · NIH-10876257 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how Chiari Type I Malformation affects the brain and spinal cord in real life, rather than just through MRI scans, to better understand how it impacts your pain, neurological symptoms, and overall brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$1,508,020
NIH project number5P01NS131131-02
Project IDNIH-10876257 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Chiari Type I Malformation who experience neurological symptoms or cognitive challenges.

Less likely to help

Patients without a diagnosis of Chiari Type I Malformation or those who do not exhibit neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the complexities of Chiari Type I Malformation (CM), which is often oversimplified in clinical settings. It aims to redefine CM by examining the dynamic interactions between the cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord, rather than relying solely on static MRI images. The study will explore how these interactions affect patient experiences, including pain and neurological deficits, and their relationship to cognitive outcomes and associated conditions like syringomyelia. By utilizing advanced imaging and analysis techniques, the research seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of CM's impact on brain development.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for patients with Chiari Type I Malformation.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that redefining complex conditions like Chiari Malformation can lead to significant advancements in understanding and treatment, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Washington University
    Saint Louis, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Lu, Chenyang — Washington University
  • Study coordinator: Lu, Chenyang

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.