Understanding how spinal circuits help coordinate movement during walking

Spinal circuits for sensorimotor integration and interlimb coordination during locomotion

NIH-funded research Drexel University · NIH-10878991

This study is looking at how the spinal cord helps us walk steadily and recover from injuries by understanding how it processes signals from our limbs, which could lead to better rehabilitation for people with movement challenges or older adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDrexel University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10878991 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the spinal cord processes sensory feedback from the limbs to enable stable walking and recovery after spinal cord injuries. By using advanced techniques such as mouse genetics, in vivo electrophysiology, and computational modeling, the study aims to uncover the interactions between sensory signals and spinal circuits that control movement. The goal is to better understand how these mechanisms work together to maintain balance and coordination, especially in individuals with motor disorders or the elderly. This knowledge could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies for those affected by such conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals recovering from spinal cord injuries, those with motor disorders, and elderly patients experiencing balance and coordination issues.

Not a fit: Patients with non-motor related conditions or those not experiencing any mobility issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to enhanced rehabilitation techniques for individuals with spinal cord injuries or motor disorders, improving their mobility and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding spinal cord circuitry and its role in movement, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
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.