How the clot-busting drug tPA affects the brain's blood vessels and recovery after stroke
Unraveling the role of tPA in the neurovascular unit
Researchers are looking at how tPA and related signals cause blood–brain barrier leakage and brain support-cell changes after an ischemic stroke in adults to help guide better recovery treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11300266 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on adults who have had ischemic stroke and on how tPA, the clot-busting drug, acts within the neurovascular unit. The team uses laboratory experiments in cells and animal models alongside analysis of human tissue or clinical data to trace how tPA cleavage triggers PDGF-C/PDGFRα signaling in perivascular astrocytes and downstream VEGF effects that increase BBB permeability and risk of bleeding. By mapping these signaling steps and their timing after reperfusion therapies, investigators aim to identify points where new treatments could reduce barrier damage and improve long-term function. The work builds on prior grant cycles that established key links between tPA, PDGF signaling, VEGF, and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who experienced an acute ischemic stroke—especially those treated with tPA or thrombectomy—would be the most relevant candidates for participation or for future therapies informed by this research.
Not a fit: People without ischemic stroke (for example those with non-stroke neurological conditions), children, or patients with primary hemorrhagic stroke are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to protect the blood–brain barrier and reduce brain bleeding after clot-busting treatments, potentially improving long-term recovery after stroke.
How similar studies have performed: Previous preclinical studies have linked tPA to BBB opening and PDGF/VEGF signaling, but clinical therapies targeting these specific pathways have not yet been proven.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lawrence, Daniel a — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lawrence, Daniel a
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.