# Behavioral and Cellular Determinants of Treadmill Training and Recovery After SCI

> **NIH NIH R01** · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · 2020 · $336,875

## Abstract

To improve recovery for individuals with SCI, gains in design and implementation of rehabilitation interventions
are needed. Identifying cellular and molecular factors that impede the benefits of exercise training is an
important first step. Understanding how these factors impact when rehabilitation should be initiated is also
unknown. Therefore, using experimental SCI models, this proposal will explore the role of inflammation in
spinal cord regions well-away from the SCI where movement is organized. The optimal window for skill training
may be defined by these inflammatory mechanisms (Aim 1). We will use downhill treadmill training as it is more
challenging than standard flat treadmill training. By initiating downhill training at different stages of
inflammation, we will measure which stage training restores more locomotor recovery. Additionally, we will
determine if activity-based training drives myelin changes along spared axons and improves function (Aim 2).
These innovative studies use new transgenic technologies alongside clinically-relevant MRI approaches.
Lastly, we will explore the regional differences in susceptibility to inflammation across the spinal cord (Aim 3).
We may identify cord regions with high potential for training-induced recovery. Developing new types of
training specifically for these pro-recovery regions may also boost functional recovery. The proposed studies
have translational potential for human SCI.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9998038
- **Project number:** 5R01NS074882-10
- **Recipient organization:** OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** D M Basso
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $336,875
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2011-09-01 → 2023-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9998038

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9998038, Behavioral and Cellular Determinants of Treadmill Training and Recovery After SCI (5R01NS074882-10). Retrieved via MORVS 2026-10-26 from https://api.morvs.ai/grant/nih/9998038. Licensed CC0.

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