Understanding CNS Changes After Spinal Cord Injury
Official title: Functional, Structural, and Metabolic Central Nervous System Changes Following Damage of the Central Nervous System
Run by University of Zurich · NCT03772548 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the brain and nervous system change after a spinal cord injury to see if these changes can help predict recovery and understand symptoms better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 450 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Zurich Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 18, 2018 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | December 15, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT03772548 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18-75 with either traumatic or non-traumatic spinal cord injuries, ranging from acute to chronic stages.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with contraindications to MRI, significant neurological impairments unrelated to spinal cord injury, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to investigate the structural and functional changes in the central nervous system following spinal cord injury (SCI). It will compare these changes in SCI patients to healthy controls, focusing on both macroscopic and microscopic alterations. The study will utilize MRI to identify biomarkers that predict neurological outcomes and assess how various factors influence patients' symptoms. Additionally, it will combine fMRI with behavioral testing to explore the determinants of functional hand representations in the brain after sensory input loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of spinal cord injuries, potentially enhancing recovery strategies for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While this study explores a specific aspect of CNS changes post-SCI, similar studies have shown promise in understanding neurological recovery, indicating potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria - Patients: * Age 18-75 * Traumatic or non-traumatic spinal cord injury (para- and tetraplegia) * Acute (\<4 weeks post SCI) to chronic SCI (\> 6 months post SCI) * Signed informed consent Exclusion Criteria - Patients: * Contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging * Neurological impairment of body function impairments not induced by spinal cord injury * BMI \> 40 * Pregnancy * Claustrophobia Inclusion Criteria - Healthy subjects: * Age 18-75 * Signed Informed consent Exclusion Criteria - Healthy subjects: * Contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging * Pregnancy * Neurological illness * Impairment of body function induced by a spinal cord injury * Claustrophobia * BMI \> 40
Where it's running
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Universitätsklinik Balgrist
Zurich, Switzerland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Patrick Freund, Prof. Dr. — University of Zurich
- Study coordinator: Maryam Seif, PD Dr.
- Email: maryam.seif@balgrist.ch
- Phone: +41 44 510 72 14
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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NG004 for incomplete cervical spinal cord injury
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ZEPU-AI3 Lower Limb Feedback Training and Evaluation Robot in Rehab
This pilot trial tests whether adding the ZEPU-AI3 robotic leg training with real-time feedback to standard rehab helps adults with lower limb motor problems from stroke, spinal cord injury, or similar conditions.
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Combined magnetic stimulation and ultrasound for detrusor overactivity in spinal cord injury
This study tests whether using high-frequency sacral nerve stimulation together with bladder-directed ultrasound can reduce involuntary bladder contractions and improve bladder function in people with spinal cord injury.
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Hybrid HIIT-FES cycling program for people with spinal cord injury
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.