The collaborative project, titled "A Mechanistic Framework for Optimal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation: Application to Pediatric Stroke Survivors with Arm Impairment," will receive a total of $50,000 in funding, with each institution contributing an additional $25,000 in matching funds or in-kind support.

The study, led by Dr. Raudel Avila from Rice University and Dr. Stuart Fraser from UTHealth Houston Institute for Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases, aims to develop a mechanistic framework for optimizing transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) therapy for pediatric stroke survivors with arm impairment. The research will combine the expertise of both institutions to advance the understanding of tDCS and its potential to improve outcomes for young stroke patients.

Dr. Avila's lab at Rice University will receive $25,000 directly from the university to conduct tDCS simulation work, while Dr. Fraser's team at UTHealth Houston will contribute their expertise in pediatric stroke research and clinical applications.

"We are thrilled to embark on this collaborative project with our colleagues at UTHealth Houston," said Dr. Avila. "By combining our expertise in tDCS simulation and their deep understanding of pediatric stroke, we have the potential to make significant strides in improving the lives of these young patients."

Dr. Fraser expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "This grant allows us to explore innovative approaches to treating arm impairment in pediatric stroke survivors. We are grateful for the support from the Provost's TMC Collaborator Seed Fund Program and look forward to working closely with Dr. Avila's team at Rice University."

The collaboration between Rice University and UTHealth Houston exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary research and the importance of funding initiatives that foster such partnerships. The project's findings could lead to the development of more effective and targeted tDCS therapies for pediatric stroke survivors, ultimately improving their quality of life and long-term outcomes.

For media inquiries, please contact the Rice University Media Relations team at media@rice.edu or the UTHealth Houston Media Relations team at media.relations@uth.tmc.edu