SCOLI Awarded VA CCDF Grant for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Research

The Spine Computational Outcomes Learning Institute (SCOLI) at the University of Pittsburgh Department of Neurological Surgery has been awarded the 2026 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Competitive Career Development Fund (CCDF) grant. This $50,000 award will support research led by Dr. Nitin Agarwal’s team to develop a blood-based diagnostic test for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy (CSM).

The project, with Co-Investigator Dr. D. Kojo Hamilton, will be led by Dr. Ayesha Akbar Waheed and coordinated by Janam Patel. This research initiative aims to advance early detection capabilities and improve clinical care for veterans affected by this progressive spinal cord condition.

Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy is a degenerative condition that can lead to significant neurological impairment if not detected and treated early. The development of a blood-based diagnostic test represents a critical advancement in non-invasive screening methods, potentially enabling earlier intervention and improved outcomes for patients.