Finding hidden causes of unexplained ischemic stroke with heart and vessel MRI
Quantitative model-based ESUS reclassification using cardiac and cerebral vessel wall MRI
This project uses advanced MRI of the heart and blood-vessel walls plus computer models to better identify likely causes for people whose ischemic stroke was labeled ESUS (embolic stroke of undetermined source).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11172469 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many ischemic strokes are called ESUS when routine tests don't show a clear cause. This project combines specialized MRI of the heart and the walls of brain and neck arteries with quantitative computer models and AI to look for subtle atherosclerosis or early atrial disease. Researchers will merge imaging findings with clinical data to reclassify some ESUS cases into more specific causes. Reclassification could help guide more personalized prevention to lower the chance of another stroke.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people who recently had an ischemic stroke labeled ESUS and who can undergo cardiac and cerebral vessel-wall MRI.
Not a fit: People whose stroke already has a clear cause or who cannot have MRI (for example because of certain implants or severe claustrophobia) are unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help doctors choose more targeted secondary prevention and reduce the risk of recurrent stroke.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research shows vessel-wall MRI and atrial imaging can reveal lesions missed by routine tests, but applying quantitative AI models to reclassify ESUS is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yuan, Chun — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Yuan, Chun
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.