Understanding how blood-brain barrier disruption affects cognitive decline after a stroke
Official title: Global Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption and Post-Stroke Cognitive Decline
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11126639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the protective barrier around the brain after a stroke might help us predict if someone will have trouble with thinking and memory later on, using special brain scans to keep an eye on these changes in stroke patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $538,709 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS123386-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126639 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced a stroke and are at risk for cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had a stroke or those with pre-existing severe cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption and cognitive decline following a stroke. It aims to determine if changes in the BBB, observable through MRI scans, can predict the risk of developing post-stroke cognitive impairment and dementia. The study will utilize advanced imaging techniques to monitor these changes over time in patients who have experienced a stroke, helping to identify those at higher risk for cognitive issues. By translating these findings into clinical practice, the research seeks to improve early detection and intervention strategies for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier identification and treatment of cognitive decline in stroke survivors, potentially improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of blood-brain barrier integrity in cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leigh, Richard — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Leigh, Richard
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Global BBB Disruption and Post-Stroke Cognitive Decline
Aims to understand how disruptions in the brain’s protective barrier after a stroke may lead to future dementia, with a plan to use MRI methods that don’t require contrast.
-
Brain-wave markers to predict thinking problems after a small stroke
This project is seeing if patterns in brain recordings (MEG and EEG) can predict which people with small strokes will develop lasting problems with attention, thinking, or processing speed.
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Investigating how breathing problems after a stroke affect thinking skills in older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
This study is looking at how breathing problems after a stroke might affect thinking and memory in older adults, especially those with Alzheimer's or certain brain conditions, to find ways to help improve both breathing and brain health.
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Using digital tools to identify cognitive decline after minor strokes
This study is looking at how certain digital tools can help predict memory and thinking problems in people who have had minor strokes, so we can find ways to help them recover better and sooner.
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Stroke prevention with hydroxyurea for children with sickle cell anemia in Nigeria
A multinational, patient-facing study tests whether hydroxyurea can safely prevent first strokes in Nigerian children with sickle cell anemia.
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.