Understanding how satellite microglia affect brain function after traumatic brain injury.
Official title: Satellite Microglia: Role in Maladaptive Network Remodeling after TBI
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10994630 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of brain cell called satellite microglia behaves after a traumatic brain injury, to see how they might affect thinking and behavior, 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 | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $361,882 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129609-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994630 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury and are facing cognitive or behavioral challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to traumatic brain injury may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of satellite microglia, a specific type of immune cell in the brain, in the aftermath of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study aims to understand how these cells influence neuronal activity and cognitive functions, particularly focusing on their ability to regulate excitability in neurons. By using specialized mouse models, researchers will explore the changes in satellite microglia and their receptors over time following TBI, which may provide insights into the mechanisms behind cognitive deficits and behavioral dysfunction. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving recovery after brain injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance recovery and cognitive function in patients who have suffered traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting immune responses in the brain can lead to improvements in recovery from neurological injuries, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nolan, Amber L — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Nolan, Amber L
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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.