Understanding how the brain adapts after spinal cord injuries to improve hand function.
Adaptation of internal motor copy circuits in recovery after spinal cord injury.
This study is looking at how the brain helps people recover their hand and finger movements after a spinal cord injury, especially in the neck area, and it aims to find ways to improve recovery through special training that uses the brain's natural pathways.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10875520 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's internal motor circuits adapt following a spinal cord injury, particularly focusing on cervical injuries that affect hand and finger movement. The study aims to explore the role of specific neurons in the recovery of skilled forelimb movements, which are crucial for daily activities. By examining how rehabilitative training can enhance recovery through preserved neural pathways, the research seeks to identify effective strategies for improving motor function in affected patients. The approach includes both animal models and potential implications for human rehabilitation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced cervical spinal cord injuries and are seeking to regain hand and digit functionality.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries at levels other than cervical or those with complete loss of motor function may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation techniques that enhance hand and finger function in patients with cervical spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in recovery approaches for spinal cord injuries, particularly in enhancing motor function through rehabilitative training, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Temple Univ of the Commonwealth — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, George M — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Smith, George M
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 below.