Investigating a new target for stroke treatment

Therapeutic implications of purinergic receptor P2X4 in ischemic stroke

NIH-funded research University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-11088877

This study is looking at a special receptor in the brain that might play a role in the damage caused by strokes, and it's for people who have had a stroke or are interested in stroke treatments; the researchers want to see if blocking this receptor could help improve recovery for stroke patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Farmington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11088877 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of the purinergic P2X4 receptor in ischemic stroke, a condition that leads to significant disability. The study aims to explore how this receptor, which is activated by ATP released from dying brain cells, contributes to stroke damage. By using animal models that lack this receptor and testing specific blockers, the researchers hope to determine if targeting this receptor can lead to new therapeutic strategies for stroke patients. The ultimate goal is to identify effective treatments that can improve outcomes for individuals affected by stroke.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced an ischemic stroke, particularly those in the acute phase of the condition.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a stroke or those with hemorrhagic stroke may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce disability and improve recovery for stroke patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for stroke treatment, but this specific approach is novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

Farmington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.