Exploring the relationship between large artery atherosclerosis and small vessel disease in the brain

Feedback Loop Between Intracranial Atherosclerosis and Cerebral Small Vessel Disease

Observational Chinese PLA General Hospital · NCT05677607

This study looks at how large artery blockages and small blood vessel problems in the brain affect each other and worsen conditions like stroke and dementia, using MRI to find ways to prevent and treat these issues better.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages30 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChinese PLA General Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Beijing, Beijing Municipality)
Trial IDNCT05677607 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the mutual effects of intracranial large artery atherosclerosis and cerebral small vessel disease on disease progression and prognosis using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It aims to understand the feedback mechanisms between these two conditions, which are often interconnected and can worsen clinical outcomes such as stroke and dementia. By identifying biomarkers through MRI, the study seeks to enhance early prevention and treatment strategies for cerebrovascular diseases.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with significant atherosclerotic stenosis in at least one intracranial artery.

Not a fit: Patients with concurrent significant stenosis in extracranial arteries or those with contraindications to MRI may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection and treatment options for patients at risk of cerebrovascular diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific feedback mechanisms are not fully understood, there is growing evidence supporting the coexistence of these conditions, indicating that similar studies may have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 18 years
* At least one intracranial artery ≥ 50% atherosclerotic stenosis
* Modified Rankin Scale \< 2
* Mini-mental State Examination \> 24

Exclusion Criteria:

* Concurrent ipsilateral extracranial artery ≥ 50% stenosis
* Pregnant women
* Contraindications to magnetic resonance examination (patients with pacemakers, nerve stimulators, artificial metal heart valves and other metal foreign bodies)

Where this trial is running

Beijing, Beijing Municipality

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ICAS - Intracranial AtherosclerosisCerebral Small Vessel DiseasesIntracranial atherosclerosisCerebral small vessel diseaseFeedback mechanismMultimodal MRI
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.