Understanding how gene changes affect recovery after spinal cord injury
Official title: The Role of Epigenetics in Mitochondrial Biogenesis-Mediated Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury
Funded at Southern Arizona VA Health Care System · NIH-10911087 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes to certain genes in our cells can help improve recovery for people with spinal cord injuries, especially veterans, by finding new ways to boost the healing process when their recovery has leveled off.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Southern Arizona VA Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5IK2BX005218-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911087 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a spinal cord injury and are in the recovery phase.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spinal cord injuries who are not in the recovery phase or have chronic, irreversible damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how modifications to mitochondrial genes can influence recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). It focuses on the plateau phase of recovery, where function stabilizes, and aims to enhance this process through pharmacological methods that promote mitochondrial biogenesis. By exploring the role of epigenetics, the study seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies that could improve recovery outcomes for individuals with SCI. The research is particularly relevant for veterans who often suffer from severe spinal injuries due to combat-related incidents.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve recovery and quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting mitochondrial biogenesis in SCI is relatively novel, there have been successful studies in related fields that suggest potential for positive outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Southern Arizona VA Health Care System
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scholpa, Natalie E — Southern Arizona VA Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Scholpa, Natalie E
Related research
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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.