Using a state of reduced body temperature to protect the brain after a stroke
Official title: Torpor for cerebroprotection
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10878895 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help stroke patients by safely lowering body temperature and metabolism to protect the brain and improve recovery, using animal models to see how this method might work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $449,749 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS133365-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10878895 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 an acute stroke.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a stroke or those with chronic neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of inducing a state called synthetic torpor, which involves lowering body temperature and metabolism, to protect the brain following a stroke. The approach focuses on activating specific neurons in the brain that can trigger this protective state, potentially reducing brain damage and improving recovery outcomes. By studying the effects of synthetic torpor in animal models, researchers aim to understand how this method can mitigate the progression of brain injury after a stroke. If successful, this could lead to new treatment strategies for stroke patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve recovery outcomes for stroke patients by reducing brain damage and enhancing rehabilitation.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies have shown promising results in animal models, suggesting that similar approaches may be effective in cerebroprotection, although this specific method is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Landsness, Eric C — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Landsness, Eric C
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.