Using engineered microvesicles to protect the blood-brain barrier after a stroke

Engineered extracellular vesicles for the delivery of mitochondria and therapeutic proteins to the BBB

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11049447

This study is looking at a new way to help protect the brain's blood barrier after a stroke by using tiny particles to deliver important materials to brain cells, which could improve recovery for stroke patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUQUESNE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11049447 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of engineered microvesicles to deliver mitochondria and a specific protein to brain endothelial cells, aiming to protect the blood-brain barrier (BBB) after a stroke. By enhancing the survival of these cells and maintaining the integrity of tight junctions, the study seeks to improve outcomes for patients who have suffered from ischemic brain injuries. The approach involves testing these microvesicles in a mouse model to assess their effectiveness in preventing BBB disruption and promoting recovery. If successful, this could lead to new therapeutic strategies for stroke patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have suffered an ischemic stroke and are experiencing complications related to blood-brain barrier dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a stroke or have other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery and outcomes for patients who have experienced a stroke by protecting the blood-brain barrier.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using engineered microvesicles is innovative, similar strategies targeting the blood-brain barrier have shown promise in preliminary studies.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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.