Federal Project Grant Award Summary

Brown University received a $254,400 Project Grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) under the Extramural Research Programs in the Neurosciences and Neurological Disorders program (CFDA 93.853), effective May 1, 2026, through April 30, 2028. The award funds research and development of D-SYN3, a novel therapeutic compound targeting traumatic brain injury (TBI) through enhancement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling pathways. The research addresses a significant public health burden, as TBI affects approximately 1.7 million U.S. civilians annually at an estimated cost of $76.5 billion.

The project deliverables include comprehensive preclinical efficacy studies evaluating D-SYN3 using two complementary TBI rodent models: a contusive controlled cortical impact model and a concussive closed head injury model. Research activities encompass determining optimal dosing regimens, assessing the compound's capacity to prevent neuronal damage and reduce pathological markers including phosphorylated tau and gliosis, and evaluating efficacy in preventing behavioral deficits related to learning and memory, motor function, and depression-like symptoms. Successful completion is anticipated to advance this BDNF-targeted therapeutic toward clinical development for TBI treatment.