Improving drug delivery to the brain after a stroke using targeted nanomedicine
Official title: Targeting the gatekeepers: Bolstering blood-brain barrier function using targeted nanomedicine in acute ischemic stroke
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11103390 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to deliver medicine directly to the damaged parts of the brain during a stroke, using tiny carriers that can find and target those areas, which could make treatments more effective for people experiencing an acute ischemic stroke.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $406,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS131279-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103390 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced an acute ischemic stroke and are within the appropriate time frame for treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced an acute ischemic stroke or those with chronic neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the delivery of medications to the brain during acute ischemic stroke by using targeted nanomedicine. The approach involves creating nanocarriers that specifically target the damaged areas of the brain, allowing for a higher concentration of therapeutic agents where they are most needed. By utilizing a specific molecule that is overexpressed in the injured brain tissue, the researchers aim to significantly improve the effectiveness of treatments. The study will involve animal models to test the safety and efficacy of these targeted therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from acute ischemic stroke, potentially improving recovery outcomes and survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with targeted drug delivery approaches in animal models, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marcos-Contreras, Oscar a. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Marcos-Contreras, Oscar a.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Targeted nanomedicine to protect the brain after stroke
A targeted drug-delivery approach aims to boost blood-brain barrier repair and reduce brain damage after an acute ischemic stroke in patients at risk.
-
Modeling Acute Ischemic Stroke to Improve Mechanical Thrombectomy
A research project is creating better computer models and animal studies to help remove clots more safely and effectively in people who have an acute ischemic stroke.
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Nanoparticle-delivered tPA to overcome clot resistance in acute ischemic stroke
A Mayo Clinic team is testing a nanoparticle-delivered tPA approach to help dissolve clots more effectively in people with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel blockage.
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Engineered tissue regulatory T cells as a treatment for stroke
A new off-the-shelf cell therapy using engineered regulatory T cells could help people who have an ischemic stroke recover by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
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Fast penumbral imaging to guide stroke treatment
Aims to develop quick MRI techniques to identify tissue at risk in acute ischemic stroke and help decide whether to use advanced clot-busting treatment.
-
Circadian factors shaping reperfusion success in acute stroke
This grant looks at how the body’s internal clock might influence how well stroke patients respond to clot-busting or clot-removal treatments.
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.