Investigating how endothelial cell fat metabolism affects outcomes after a stroke
Official title: Defining the contribution from endothelial cell sphingolipid metabolism to outcomes of acute ischemic stroke in mice
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11073799 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fat in brain cells affects recovery after a stroke, and it aims to find out if lowering certain fat molecules can help improve healing and movement for people who have had a stroke.
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 | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS137105-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073799 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 seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a stroke or have other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of fat metabolism in brain cells during acute ischemic stroke (AIS), a condition that can lead to severe neurological impairments. Using mouse models, the study aims to explore whether targeting specific fat molecules in brain endothelial cells can improve recovery after a stroke. The researchers will test new treatments that lower these fat molecules to see if they can reduce brain damage and improve motor function. By analyzing the effects of these interventions, the study seeks to provide insights into potential therapies for stroke patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, previous studies have shown that targeting metabolic pathways in brain cells can lead to improved outcomes in other neurological conditions.
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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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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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.
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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.