DARPA launches SHINE program to boost brain healing after trauma
DARPA has begun a new initiative called SHINE to develop non-invasive tools that stimulate targeted neuroplasticity for treating traumatic brain injuries.
The Pentagon's research arm, DARPA, has opened a program named SHINE—Selective Harnessing of Intrinsic Neuroplasticity Engineering—to create non-invasive methods that encourage the brain to rebuild damaged connections after trauma. The agency stresses that while neuroplasticity underlies recovery, existing tools cannot target specific functional pathways without affecting the whole brain. Rising incidents of traumatic brain injury among troops facing blast overpressure and repeated weapon use have driven the focus, and similar injuries affect civilians through falls, vehicle crashes, and sports.
Former military emergency physician Vik Bebarta, now strategic lead at the Marcus Institute for Brain Health, highlighted the need for better exposure measurement, early detection, and precise therapies. DARPA also plans to pair these technologies with blood-based tests the Pentagon is fielding to screen service members. If successful, SHINE could offer more precise treatment options and improve cognitive outcomes across military and civilian populations.
Why it matters
Targeted brain-repair tools could reduce long-term disability for soldiers and civilians suffering traumatic brain injuries.
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