Understanding how spinal cord injury affects sympathetic nervous system function
Official title: Role of KCC2 in sympathetic dysfunction after spinal cord injury
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-10998726 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called KCC2 affects the nervous system after a spinal cord injury, especially for people with injuries in the upper back, to help understand why some body functions go haywire and find new ways to improve health for those dealing with these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS139676-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998726 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 at or above the thoracic level 6 and are experiencing symptoms related to sympathetic dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spinal cord injuries below the thoracic level 6 or those without sympathetic dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific protein, KCC2, in the sympathetic nervous system's response after a spinal cord injury, particularly injuries at or above the thoracic level 6. Following such injuries, the normal control of sympathetic functions is disrupted, leading to exaggerated reflexes that can severely affect organ function and contribute to cardiovascular and immune issues. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes, which could lead to new treatments for individuals suffering from these complications. By examining the relationship between KCC2 and sympathetic hyperreflexia, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that alleviate severe complications associated with spinal cord injuries, improving quality of life for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of KCC2 in sympathetic hyperreflexia after spinal cord injury is not well-established, similar research has shown promise in understanding the mechanisms of sympathetic dysfunction in related conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wulf, Mariah J — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Wulf, Mariah J
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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.