Understanding how the immune system affects brain and eye damage after blast injuries.
Evaluating the interaction of the immune system and inflammation on the progression of blast-mediatedneurodegeneration.
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · IOWA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11303240
This study is looking at how blast-related brain injuries affect the immune system and may lead to problems like nerve damage and vision issues, with the goal of finding new ways to help people recover using existing medications.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | IOWA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11303240 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by blasts, particularly from improvised explosive devices, on the immune system and its role in neurodegeneration. It focuses on how the immune response, including the production of autoantibodies and the infiltration of immune cells, contributes to neuronal loss and visual impairment. By examining these mechanisms, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could mitigate the damage caused by such injuries. The research will utilize existing approved drugs to explore new treatment options for affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have suffered traumatic brain injuries, particularly from blast exposures, and may be experiencing visual loss or other neurological symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced traumatic brain injuries or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that help prevent or reduce brain and eye damage in individuals who have experienced blast-related injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in TBI, but this specific approach to blast-mediated neurodegeneration is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES
- IOWA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER — IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HARPER, MATTHEW M. — IOWA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: HARPER, MATTHEW 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.