Hyperacute Stroke Biomarker Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Identification and Validation of Blood-Based Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis and Prognosis of Hyperacute Stroke.
IRAS ID
344629
Contact name
Sikha Saha
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leeds
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Stroke is a significant global health concern, ranking as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is characterized by the sudden loss of brain function due to a disruption in the blood supply. There are two primary types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Acute ischemic stroke, which accounts for approximately 87% of all stroke cases, occurs when a blood clot obstructs a blood vessel supplying the brain, leading to tissue damage and neurological deficits.
Current Diagnostic Challenges
Timely diagnosis and treatment are critical for improving outcomes in acute ischemic stroke. The current gold standard for diagnosis includes clinical assessment and neuroimaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, these methods have several limitations:Time-Consuming: Imaging techniques require time, which can delay treatment, especially in emergency settings where "time is brain."
Availability: Advanced imaging facilities may not be readily available in all healthcare settings, particularly in rural or resource-limited areas.
Operator-Dependent: Interpretation of imaging results can vary depending on the operator’s expertise.
Need for Blood-Based Biomarkers
Blood-based biomarkers represent a promising solution to the challenges of current diagnostic methods. Biomarkers are measurable indicators of a biological state or condition. In the context of stroke, blood-based biomarkers can offer several advantages:Minimally Invasive: Blood collection is less invasive compared to other diagnostic procedures, making it more acceptable and easier to perform.
Rapid Results: Biomarker tests can potentially provide quicker results than imaging, facilitating faster clinical decision-making.
Wide Availability: Blood tests can be conducted in a variety of healthcare settings, including those with limited access to advanced imaging technologies.
Comprehensive Information: Biomarkers can provide insights into various physiological processes, such as inflammation, coagulation, and neural damage, contributing to a better understanding of stroke pathology.In this project, we propose to identify and validate specific biomarkers in human blood samples that can reliably diagnose acute ischemic stroke, predict patient outcomes, and potentially guide therapeutic interventions.
REC name
London - Brighton & Sussex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0237
Date of REC Opinion
29 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion