Understanding why some headaches become chronic

SunStar Project to Explore the Chronification Process in Headache Through Functional Imaging, Deep Phenotyping, and Analysis of CSF of Blood Products

Stanford University · NCT03231241

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 typeObservational
Enrollment700 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStanford University (other)
Locations1 site (Stanford, California)
Trial IDNCT03231241 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with any type of headache as well as those with infrequent headaches (less than 2 per year).

Not a fit: Patients with existing neurological conditions may not benefit from this study.

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 performed: While similar studies have explored headache mechanisms, this approach combining imaging, deep phenotyping, and proteomics is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Stanford, California

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: Chronic Daily Headache, Chronic Migraine, Headaches, Tension-Type Headache, New Daily Persistent Headache, Migraine

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.