Using light therapy to improve brain function after traumatic injuries

Nano-Pulsed Optoacoustic Neuromodulation for Reducing Traumatic Brain Injury-Driven Neuropathology and Improving Cognitive Outcome

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MED BR GALVESTON · NIH-11092724

This study is testing a new, gentle treatment using light and sound to help people with traumatic brain injuries heal better and improve their memory and thinking skills.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MED BR GALVESTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GALVESTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11092724 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a new non-invasive treatment for patients with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) using a technique called nano-pulsed optoacoustic laser therapy (NPLT). The therapy combines safe laser light and sound waves to reduce inflammation and stimulate brain healing, particularly in areas critical for memory and cognition. Patients will receive this treatment in a stress-free environment, and the research aims to evaluate its effectiveness in improving cognitive outcomes and reducing brain damage. The approach has shown promise in animal models, and this study seeks to translate those findings to human patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury and are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with non-traumatic brain injuries or those who do not have cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking treatment that significantly improves cognitive function and quality of life for TBI patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in animal models have shown that this approach can improve cognitive outcomes and reduce brain inflammation, indicating potential for success in human applications.

Where this research is happening

GALVESTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.