NIH-funded research R03 grant

Understanding how traumatic brain injury softens brain tissue

Official title: Tissue Softening in Traumatic Brain Injury

Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11085947 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a traumatic brain injury can make brain tissue softer and potentially lead to more injuries, using special imaging to better understand these changes and help improve ways to prevent and treat TBI.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project startMay 15, 2024
Project endApril 30, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$74,836
NIH project number5R03NS137098-02
Project IDNIH-11085947 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have experienced a traumatic brain injury.

Less likely to help

Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the changes in brain tissue stiffness following traumatic brain injury (TBI). It aims to understand the mechanisms behind brain softening, which may increase the risk of further injury. The study utilizes advanced imaging techniques to analyze how deformation affects both the brain and its blood vessels. By examining these changes, the research seeks to provide insights that could improve prevention and treatment strategies for TBI.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for individuals suffering from traumatic brain injuries.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of brain softening post-TBI are not extensively studied, related research has shown promising results in understanding brain injuries and their effects.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Utah
    Salt Lake City, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Monson, Kenneth L — University of Utah
  • Study coordinator: Monson, Kenneth L

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.