Using electrical stimulation to improve stem cell treatments for spinal cord injuries
Does Electrical Stimulation Enhance the Capacity of Neural Stem Cell Transplants to Improve Recovery from Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
This study is looking at how using electrical stimulation can make stem cell transplants work better for people with chronic spinal cord injuries, helping them regain movement and function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11137324 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how electrical stimulation can enhance the effectiveness of neural stem cell transplants in patients with chronic spinal cord injuries. The approach combines the regenerative potential of stem cells, which can differentiate into neurons and glial cells, with electrical stimulation techniques that have shown promise in improving motor and autonomic functions. By exploring the synergy between these two therapies, the research aims to overcome current limitations in stem cell therapy, such as poor integration into existing neural circuits. Patients may be involved in trials that assess the safety and efficacy of this combined treatment approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation would be individuals with chronic spinal cord injuries who are seeking innovative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with acute spinal cord injuries or those who do not have a spinal cord injury may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve recovery outcomes for patients with chronic spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been successful studies using electrical stimulation for spinal cord injuries, the combination with stem cell transplants is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perlmutter, Steve I — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Perlmutter, Steve I
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.