Understanding how specific brain cells affect cognitive and motor functions after brain injury in newborns

Discovering the cell type basis of the IT projection system and its dysregulation after perinatal HIE

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10977620

This study is looking at how certain brain cells work and change when babies experience a lack of oxygen at birth, which can lead to problems with thinking and movement, to help us understand and improve treatments for these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10977620 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific excitatory neurons in the brain that connect different regions involved in cognition and motor control. By examining how these neurons function and change in response to perinatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to cognitive and motor impairments in affected infants. The approach involves detailed analysis of neuron types and their connections within the brain, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of related neurological disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how brain injuries impact development and function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns who have experienced perinatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and may exhibit cognitive or motor symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced brain injuries or those with unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for cognitive and motor impairments in infants affected by brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of specific neuron types in cognitive and motor functions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Acquired brain injuryAutistic Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.