Understanding how the brain compensates after a stroke
Official title: ERIS - Effective Reserve In Stroke
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10724761 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain can adapt after a stroke to help people recover better, especially older adults, so we can find new ways to support their healing and independence.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $454,225 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG083559-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10724761 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, particularly older adults.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had a stroke or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's ability to compensate for damage caused by a stroke can influence recovery and functional independence. By analyzing clinical imaging data from patients with acute ischemic stroke, the study aims to identify factors that contribute to better-than-expected outcomes. The goal is to develop targeted treatment options that enhance recovery by understanding the brain's effective reserve capacity. This approach is particularly relevant for older adults who are at higher risk for strokes and related disabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery strategies for stroke patients, enhancing their quality of life and independence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain reserve in neurodegenerative diseases, but this specific approach in stroke populations is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schirmer, Markus D — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Schirmer, Markus D
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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.