What research is being done?

Because the effects of stroke can be so devastating, research is always being conducted on how to prevent it. But researchers are also focusing attention on treating secondary stroke damage that is caused by a toxic reaction to the primary damage - which is brain cell death caused by lack of blood. For instance, in hemorrhagic strokes secondary damage occurs when blood is diverted into surrounding tissues rather than reaching appropriate areas of the brain. Scientists hope to develop neuroprotective agents to prevent this damage.

One promising area of stroke research being studied in animals involves hibernation. The dramatic decrease of blood flow to the brain in hibernating animals is extensive enough that it would kill a non-hibernating animal. If scientists can discover how animals hibernate without experiencing brain damage, then maybe they might discover ways to stop the brain damage associated with decreased blood flow in stroke patients.

Other studies are looking at the role of hypothermia, or decreased body temperature, on metabolism and neuroprotection. Scientists are working to develop new and better ways to help the brain repair itself and restore important functions to stroke patients. Some evidence suggests that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), in which a small magnetic current is delivered to an area of the brain, may possibly increase the brain's flexibility and speed up recovery of function after stroke.

If you or a loved one have suffered a stroke, see Resources. You may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial. Click here for lists of clinical trials - studies currently seeking patients.