NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Using PET imaging to detect inflammation changes after brain injuries

Official title: Feasibility of Using PET Imaging for Detection of Treatment-Induced Changes in Chronic Neuroinflammation Following TBI

Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10897840 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a special brain scan can help us see inflammation in the brain caused by traumatic injuries, like falls or sports accidents, and it will also test if a medication called methylphenidate can help improve brain function for people dealing with these injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Health Administration
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2025
NIH project number5I21RX004644-02
Project IDNIH-10897840 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced traumatic brain injuries and are suffering from chronic neuroinflammation-related symptoms.

Less likely to help

Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or do not exhibit symptoms of chronic neuroinflammation may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how PET imaging can be used to monitor chronic neuroinflammation resulting from traumatic brain injuries (TBI). It aims to develop a platform that can detect these changes and evaluate the effectiveness of a medication called methylphenidate in enhancing brain function. The study uses a rat model that simulates common causes of TBIs, such as falls and sports injuries, to understand the long-term effects of these injuries on brain health. By focusing on the brain's immune response, the research seeks to provide insights into improving treatment for individuals affected by TBIs.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better detection and treatment strategies for chronic neuroinflammation in patients with traumatic brain injuries.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging techniques to study brain injuries, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Veterans Health Administration
    Gainesville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Bose, Prodip K. — Veterans Health Administration
  • Study coordinator: Bose, Prodip K.

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.