Groundbreaking findings bring hope for faster and better recovery after stroke

Newswise — The research, recently featured in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, presents a multicenter trial wherein scientists from the Universities of Gothenburg and Cologne executed simultaneous assessments of a novel stroke therapy on mice. The study was carried out in conjunction with experts from the Czech Academy of Sciences.

Through the administration of a nasal drop containing the complement peptide C3a to mice, the researchers observed a superior and accelerated restoration of motor abilities following stroke, in comparison to mice treated with a nasal drop placebo. These findings not only affirm but also expand upon a prior investigation conducted at the University of Gothenburg, and the enhanced study design further enhances their reliability.

"The consistent positive outcomes observed in both Swedish and German experiments significantly enhance the robustness of the results," asserts Marcela Pekna, the study's lead researcher and Professor of Neuroimmunology at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg.

No racing against time

A noteworthy aspect is that the treatment initiation occurred only after a seven-day period following the stroke. This implies that in a plausible future scenario, a majority of stroke patients could be eligible for the treatment, including those who fail to reach the hospital within the recommended timeframe or individuals who, for various reasons, do not benefit from clot-dissolving drugs (thrombolysis) or mechanical clot removal (thrombectomy).

"By employing this approach, the urgency to race against time is eliminated. If this treatment is implemented in clinical practice, it can be administered to all stroke patients, including those who arrive at the hospital beyond the time window for thrombolysis or thrombectomy. Furthermore, even individuals who experience residual disability after clot removal could potentially benefit and improve through this treatment," explains Pekna.

The study not only highlights notable positive effects but also elucidates the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms within the brain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed that the administration of the C3a peptide treatment augmented the formation of new synaptic connections among nerve cells in the brains of mice.

Mechanisms clarified

Milos Pekny, a Professor from the Department of Clinical Neuroscience at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, actively contributed to the study.

"Our findings indicate," he explains, "that the C3a peptide influences the function of astrocytes, which are cells responsible for regulating various functions of nerve cells in both healthy and diseased brains. Additionally, the study sheds light on the specific signals that astrocytes transmit to nerve cells."

Despite advancements in emergency care, ischemic stroke, which is the most prevalent form of stroke, continues to be a significant contributor to long-term disabilities such as impaired speech and mobility. The researchers emphasize that stroke treatment should not be limited to immediate interventions within the initial hours after the onset of symptoms.

"There exists significant potential for substantial improvement even at later stages of stroke. As the molecule was administered through nasal drops, the treatment could be conveniently administered at home by family members or even by the patients themselves," adds Pekny.

Timing is a crucial factor in the C3a peptide treatment as well. If administered too early, the molecule has the potential to increase the presence of inflammatory cells in the brain. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that the favorable effects observed in experimental animals persist long after the cessation of treatment.

"The sustained positive effect is of utmost significance," Pekna affirms, "as it signifies the genuine potential of this treatment. Additionally, our understanding of the mechanisms behind the action of the C3a peptide has improved. Our goal is to further develop this method to make it applicable in clinical settings. However, to achieve that, particularly to conduct the essential clinical trials, collaboration with a pharmaceutical industry partner is indispensable," she concludes.