Understanding how the brain controls swallowing after a stroke
Official title: Brain Networks Supporting Oral and Pharyngeal Swallow Function after Stroke
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11047167 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain helps us swallow, especially for people who have had a stroke and struggle with swallowing, to find out how we can better support their recovery and improve their treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $423,788 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS136383-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047167 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a stroke and are facing challenges with swallowing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had a stroke or do not exhibit swallowing difficulties may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain networks involved in swallowing function, particularly after a stroke, which often leads to swallowing difficulties known as dysphagia. By studying a large group of patients, the research aims to identify the neuroanatomical mechanisms that predict recovery outcomes for swallowing function. The approach includes using advanced techniques to measure swallowing physiology and the interconnected brain areas that contribute to this function. The ultimate goal is to improve patient care by tailoring swallowing treatments based on specific brain network elements.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better predictions and treatments for patients experiencing swallowing difficulties after a stroke.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain functions related to swallowing, but this study aims to provide a more comprehensive and validated approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilmskoetter, Janina — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Wilmskoetter, Janina
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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.