Understanding the causes of cerebral small vessel disease

Imaging the Pathogenesis of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease

Johns Hopkins University · NCT05703386

This study is trying to understand what causes cerebral small vessel disease by looking at brain changes in people who have had a stroke and are at risk for further issues over the next year.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorJohns Hopkins University (other)
Locations1 site (Baltimore, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT05703386 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the pathogenesis of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) by recruiting individuals at risk for white matter hyperintensities (WMH) progression. Participants will undergo serial MRI scans to assess changes in the brain's micro-structural integrity and blood-brain barrier disruption over a period of 1.25 years. The study will focus on patients with a history of ischemic stroke and vascular risk factors, utilizing various MRI biomarkers to gain insights into the relationship between CSVD and cognitive impairment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with a history of ischemic stroke, at least one vascular risk factor, and evidence of cerebral small vessel disease on MRI.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to complete the required MRI scans or do not have a history of stroke or vascular risk factors may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of cognitive decline associated with cerebral small vessel disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in using MRI to track changes in cerebral small vessel disease, indicating that this approach is supported by prior research.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Clinical or radiographic evidence of ischemic stroke
* One vascular risk factor (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or diabetes)
* Evidence of cerebral small vessel disease on MRI

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to complete 3 research MRI scans over 1.25 years

Where this trial is running

Baltimore, Maryland

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Ischemic Stroke, Hypertension, Hyperlipidemias, Diabetes, Cerebral small vessel disease, Vascular cognitive impairment and dementia, White matter hyperintensities, Blood-brain barrier

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.