Using embryonic stem cells to improve recovery after spinal cord injuries
Official title: Embryonic Stem Cell Therapy after Cervical Contusion SCI in NHPs
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11031942 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special cells from human embryos might help improve recovery from spinal cord injuries in monkeys, and it also tests a drug that could work better when used with these cells, all with the hope of finding new treatments for people with similar injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $591,839 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS130033-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031942 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries and are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spinal cord injuries who are not eligible for experimental therapies or those with conditions unrelated to spinal cord function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of human embryonic stem cell-derived neural stem cells to enhance recovery from spinal cord injuries in non-human primates. The study aims to understand how these stem cells can activate host neural circuits and improve functional outcomes. It also explores the effects of a drug called 4-aminopyridine on the recovery process when combined with stem cell grafts. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to develop effective therapies that could eventually benefit human patients with spinal cord injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve recovery and quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches using stem cells for spinal cord injury recovery, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rosenzweig, Ephron Solomon — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Rosenzweig, Ephron Solomon
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.