Understanding why some headaches become chronic
Official title: SunStar Project to Explore the Chronification Process in Headache Through Functional Imaging, Deep Phenotyping, and Analysis of CSF of Blood Products
Run by Stanford University · NCT03231241 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to find out why some people’s headaches turn into chronic ones by looking at different factors like brain function and genetics.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 700 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Stanford, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 12, 2014 |
| Main results expected | August 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | September 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 23, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT03231241 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals with any type of headache as well as those with infrequent headaches (less than 2 per year).
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with existing neurological conditions may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to investigate the factors that contribute to the transition from episodic headaches to chronic daily headaches and chronic migraines. Researchers will analyze brain anatomy and function, cerebrospinal fluid composition, blood products, genetics, and patient phenotypes through various procedures including online questionnaires, blood samples, lumbar punctures, and MRI scans. By examining these elements, the study seeks to identify potential risk factors and mechanisms that could inform treatment strategies and preventative measures for patients at risk of chronic headache conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of chronic headaches, potentially enhancing treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While similar studies have explored headache mechanisms, this approach combining imaging, deep phenotyping, and proteomics is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Subjects must agree to sign informed consent. * Subject must be able to or at least with some help willing to complete online questionnaires in English . * Willing to comply with study instructions. * must speak and understand English Exclusion Criteria: \*Any neurological condition, at the discretion of the Principal Investigator (PI)
Where it's running
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Stanford University School of Medicine
Stanford, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Robert Cowan, MD, FAAN — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Bharati Sanjanwala, M.Sc.
- Email: bharatis@stanford.edu
- Phone: 650-721-2830
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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i-NEED: New migraine drugs database
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Suppressive Functions of Regulatory T Cells in Migraine
This study tests whether regulatory T cells can help control migraine-related inflammation in adults with chronic migraine.
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Comparing sphenopalatine block and BOTOX for chronic migraine relief
This study is testing whether a nerve block or BOTOX injections can help people with chronic migraines feel better.
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Using Atogepant tablets to prevent migraines in teens aged 12 to 17
This study is testing if Atogepant tablets can help prevent migraines in teenagers aged 12 to 17.
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to reduce disability in adults with chronic migraine
This trial will test whether adding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to usual care helps adults with chronic migraine improve daily functioning and reduce headache frequency and pain.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.