Improving recovery from stroke by targeting blood vessel cell metabolism in older mice.
Official title: Targeting endothelial cell metabolism to improve recovery from acute ischemic stroke in older mice.
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10811525 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help older people recover better from a stroke by improving the health of the cells that line their blood vessels, which could boost blood flow and oxygen to the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | September 23, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $399,345 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG081780-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10811525 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have experienced an acute ischemic stroke.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 years old or those who have not experienced an acute ischemic stroke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to enhance recovery from acute ischemic stroke (AIS) by focusing on the metabolism of endothelial cells, which line blood vessels. The study aims to amplify the process of autophagy in these cells, improve glucose transport, and activate specific signaling pathways to support their function. By restoring the health of these cells, the research seeks to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain after a stroke, particularly in older individuals. The methodology involves testing these strategies in older mice to understand their potential benefits for stroke recovery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery outcomes for patients suffering from acute ischemic stroke, particularly in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that enhancing autophagy can improve outcomes in similar conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Symons, John David — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Symons, John David
Related research
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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.