Research Programs

Neuroplasticity Program

The Neuroplasticity Program will focus on recovery approaches that modify synapses and circuits to enhance functional capacity. Neuroplasticity strategies will attempt to maximize function from existing cells as a critical component of promoting recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI). Neuroplasticity studies will assist the development of neuroregenerative strategies since newly generated cells must establish the appropriate neuronal-glial interactions and/or integrate into the appropriate circuitry to contribute to the recovery of function.

Neuroplasticity Program Primary Goals:

• Understand the biological consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that impair central nervous system structural and functional repair.
• Develop neurobiological approaches to aid recovery of neurological and cognitive function.
• Characterize neural maps within the cerebral cortex and limbic system that are associated with the changes resulting from TBI and possibly altered with treatment.

Critical Issues for the Neuroplasticity Program:

• Underlying predictors of impaired cognitive and sensory motor learning skills accompany many forms of TBI.
• Environmental stress affects TBI symptomatology.
• Diffuse axonal injury is associated with specific forms of TBI and can disrupt function throughout diverse neural circuits.
• Glial and immune response in TBI can alter neuronal function.

Neuroplasticity Program Research Projects and Pilots

Click here to download project and pilots abstracts