Understanding how to reduce inflammation after spinal cord injury

L-selectin shedding as a novel therapeutic strategy to mitigate acute secondary damage after spinal cord injury

NIH-funded research Texas A&m University · NIH-11135323

This research explores how a common anti-inflammatory medicine might protect the spinal cord from further damage right after an injury.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas A&m University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Station, United States)
Project IDNIH-11135323 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

When a spinal cord injury happens, inflammation can cause more damage to the surrounding tissues. This project looks at a specific protein on immune cells, called L-selectin, which plays a role in this harmful inflammation. Researchers are studying how an existing medicine, diclofenac, can reduce L-selectin activity, potentially limiting this secondary damage. The goal is to understand the exact ways this medicine helps to protect the spinal cord and improve recovery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals who have experienced an acute spinal cord injury.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic spinal cord injuries or other conditions not related to acute inflammation after injury may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to protect the spinal cord immediately after an injury, potentially improving long-term recovery for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous findings suggest that diclofenac, which affects L-selectin, has shown promise in improving tissue protection and recovery after spinal cord injury.

Where this research is happening

College Station, 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 2026-06-13 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.