Understanding Depression After Stroke

Deciphering Molecular Mechanisms of Post-Stroke Depression in Aged Mice

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON · NIH-11158948

This project explores how depression develops after a stroke, especially in older individuals, by looking at brain changes and potential protective factors.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11158948 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Stroke is a major cause of disability, and many survivors experience depression, which can worsen recovery and increase health risks. This work aims to understand the specific brain changes that lead to depression after a stroke, particularly focusing on how the immune system, inflammation, and brain cell growth are affected. Researchers are also looking into the roles of natural brain chemicals like oxytocin and taurine, which may help reduce inflammation and improve brain health. By understanding these processes, we hope to find new ways to prevent or treat post-stroke depression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research focuses on understanding the disease mechanisms, so it is not directly recruiting patients at this time, but future clinical applications would target stroke survivors experiencing or at risk for depression.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a stroke or do not have post-stroke depression would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or strategies to prevent depression in stroke survivors, improving their quality of life and recovery.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms are still being explored, other studies have highlighted the importance of immune responses and neurochemicals in mood disorders and stroke recovery.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.