Understanding DKK2 Protein Levels in Stroke Patients After Treatment

Clinical Significance, Mechanism of Action, and New Targeted Drug Research of DKK2 Protein in Cerebral Ischemia-reperfusion Injury

This study looks at the levels of a protein called DKK2 in stroke patients who have received treatment to see if it can help us understand their recovery better.

Quick facts

• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 108 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 79 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University (Academic / other)
• Locations: 2 sites (Dongguan, Guangdong and 1 other locations)
• Trial ID: NCT05585255 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the levels of DKK2 protein in the serum of patients who have experienced an ischemic stroke and undergone revascularization therapy. By analyzing the correlation between DKK2 levels and patient prognosis, the study seeks to enhance understanding of the biological processes involved in ischemia-reperfusion injury. The research will be conducted at two centers, utilizing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for measurement. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving outcomes in stroke patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 80 who have been diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke and have undergone successful revascularization.

Not a fit: Patients with posterior circulation infarctions or significant pre-existing disabilities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved prognostic assessments and targeted therapies for patients recovering from ischemic stroke.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on DKK2 in this context may be novel, previous studies have shown the importance of Wnt signaling in stroke recovery, indicating potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥ 18 years, \< 80 years, sex not limited;
2. Definite clinical diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke;
3. Baseline NIHSS score ≥ 6 and ≤ 25;
4. CTA/MRA/DSA examination suggests large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation (internal carotid artery, M1/M2 segment of the middle cerebral artery);
5. The criteria for receiving endovascular treatment in accordance with the Chinese Guidelines for Early Endovascular Intervention in Acute Ischemic Stroke 2018 and have successful revascularization (TICI ≥ grade 2b);
6. Subjects or their legal representatives agree to the treatment and sign the informed consent form.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with combined posterior circulation infarction;
2. The mRS ≥ 2 points before the current episode;
3. Patients who are to be treated with or have been treated with anticoagulants;
4. Patients with existing or active organ bleeding within 6 months of enrollment, including cerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, gastrointestinal tract hemorrhage, fundus hemorrhage, etc;
5. The presence of other intracranial pathologies, such as cerebrovascular malformations, cerebral venous lesions, tumors, and other diseases involving the cranium;
6. Severe organ dysfunction or failure;
7. Those with severe hematologic disorders or severe coagulation abnormalities；
8. Those with a history of severe trauma or major surgical procedures within 6 months prior to enrollment;
9. Pregnant or lactating women;
10. Patients with a life expectancy of less than 3 months or who for other reasons are unable to complete the study;
11. Unwillingness to be followed up or poor compliance with treatment;
12. Other conditions that the investigator considers unsuitable for enrollment.

Where this trial is running

Dongguan, Guangdong and 1 other locations

• Dongguan Hospital of Southern Medical University — Dongguan, Guangdong, China (Recruiting)
• Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University — Guangzhou, Guangdong, China (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Kaibin Huang, PHD

Conditions Ischemic Stroke, Acute; Ischemia-reperfusion Injury; Cerebral Edema