Investigating how red blood cells affect high blood sugar after a stroke

The Role of Red Blood Cell in Stroke-Related Hyperglycemia

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11146718

This study is looking at how high blood sugar affects red blood cells in stroke patients, to see if these changes make it harder for them to recover and to find new ways to help improve their healing.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11146718 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of acute hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, on red blood cells (RBCs) in patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke. It aims to understand how these RBCs, which are crucial for oxygen transport, are altered during episodes of high blood sugar and how these changes may contribute to poor recovery outcomes. The study will involve clinical assessments of stroke patients, focusing on the metabolic shifts in RBCs and their effects on brain endothelial cells, which are vital for brain health. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover new insights into stroke-related injuries that are not resolved by standard glucose control.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced an ischemic stroke and are also dealing with acute hyperglycemia.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a stroke or do not have issues with high blood sugar may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for stroke patients experiencing high blood sugar, potentially enhancing recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of red blood cells in various conditions can lead to significant advancements, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
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.