Using adipokines to help recovery after brain injuries

Adipokines as novel therapy to promote functional recovery after experimental traumatic brain injury

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11130023

This study is looking at how a hormone called adiponectin might help people recover better after a brain injury by reducing inflammation and protecting brain cells, so if you’ve had a traumatic brain injury, you could be part of research that aims to improve your recovery and thinking skills.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11130023 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of adiponectin, a hormone that can penetrate the brain, to promote recovery following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study aims to understand how adiponectin can reduce inflammation and protect neurons, which are often damaged after TBI. By utilizing a small-molecule agonist of adiponectin receptors, researchers hope to mitigate cognitive impairments associated with TBI and reduce the risk of developing dementia. Patients participating in this research may receive treatments that could enhance their recovery and cognitive function after experiencing a brain injury.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced a traumatic brain injury and are at risk for cognitive impairments.

Not a fit: Patients who have not suffered a traumatic brain injury or those with pre-existing severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve recovery and cognitive outcomes for patients with traumatic brain injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with adiponectin and its agonists in reducing inflammation and cognitive deficits, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.