Wings for Life

Wings for Life is a private research foundation that is fully dedicated to  promoting fundamental and clinical research into spinal cord injury, with the aim of  improving outcomes for patients. The foundation funds groundbreaking research projects worldwide that focus on both the protection of  nerve cells and the recovery of functions after a spinal cord injury.

Research focus areas

Wings for Life supports projects in various fields to maximize the chances of finding  a cure for spinal cord injury. These areas include, among others: wingsforlife.com

• Neuroprotection and secondary damage: Protection of intact cells and  preventing further damage after the injury.

• Nerve regeneration and plasticity: Stimulating the growth and reconnection of nerve cells to restore lost functions.

• Functional deficits caused by injuries: Understanding and addressing the functional limitations that arise after a spinal cord injury

Preferably, these studies focus on mechanisms that are present or validated in humans, and utilize mammalian models to ensure relevance for human applications.

Support for clinical research

In addition to fundamental research, Wings for Life also supports clinical research projects aimed at: 

• Management of spinal cord injury: Developing treatment methods and interventions that improve care for patients.

• Other areas related to traumatic spinal cord injury: Essential aspects that contribute to neurological and functional recovery.

Projects that enable a clear translation from

laboratory research to clinical applications are preferred, and those that have the potential

to offer real benefits for patients with a spinal cord injury. In particular, the focus is placed on

chronic spinal cord injury, where of

application.science.wingsforlife.com

Innovative approaches

Wings for Life is open to innovative approaches, such as the use of exoskeletons and brain-spine interfaces, as long as the focus is on their application in the context of rehabilitation and neuroplasticity. It is important to note that projects that are exclusively focused on technological development without a clear link to functional recovery are not eligible for funding.

For more information about the research program and funding opportunities, you can visit the official Wings for Life research website