Using brain-derived circRNAs to improve stroke diagnosis through blood tests
Official title: Investigation of brain-originating circRNAs as targets in blood-based stroke triage diagnostics
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11040353 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to create a new blood test that can help doctors quickly and accurately detect strokes by checking for special molecules from the brain, which could lead to faster treatment and better recovery for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $596,115 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129876-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040353 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are suspected of having a stroke or are experiencing stroke-like symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already been diagnosed with a stroke and are receiving treatment may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new blood-based diagnostic tool for stroke by investigating circular RNAs (circRNAs) that originate from the brain. Current methods for identifying strokes rely heavily on symptoms, which can often lead to misdiagnosis. By focusing on circRNAs, which are stable and accumulate in neurons, the study seeks to create a more reliable biomarker for early detection of strokes in emergency settings. This could lead to faster treatment and better outcomes for patients experiencing a stroke.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the accuracy of stroke diagnosis, leading to timely interventions and better recovery outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for stroke detection, but this approach focusing on circRNAs is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connell, Grant C — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: O'connell, Grant C
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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.