Understanding why shunts fail in children with hydrocephalus
Investigating the source and the action behind shunt obstruction in the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus
['FUNDING_R01'] · WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11178389
This project aims to discover why shunts, which drain fluid from the brain, often stop working in children with hydrocephalus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DETROIT, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11178389 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Many children with hydrocephalus rely on shunts to manage their condition, but these devices frequently fail, leading to serious health issues. We want to understand what causes tissue to block the shunt's drainage holes, specifically looking at how patient conditions and physical forces might pull tissue into the shunt. We will also explore if the growth of certain cells, like astrocytes, is necessary for this blockage to occur after tissue contact. By using advanced computer models and lab experiments, we hope to pinpoint the exact reasons for shunt failure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients who have hydrocephalus and rely on shunts, or those who may need shunts in the future, are the focus of this important work.
Not a fit: Patients without hydrocephalus or those whose condition is managed without shunts may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to design shunts or manage hydrocephalus that prevent blockages, significantly improving the lives of children with this condition.
How similar studies have performed: While the high failure rate of shunts highlights a persistent problem, this project seeks to uncover fundamental mechanisms that are not yet fully understood, making its approach novel in addressing the root causes of obstruction.
Where this research is happening
DETROIT, UNITED STATES
- WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY — DETROIT, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HARRIS, CAROLYN A — WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: HARRIS, CAROLYN A
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.