Louisville Launches Clinical Trial for Ischemic Strokes

Louisville, Kentucky, October 20, 2025

News Summary

The University of Louisville and UofL Health have initiated a clinical trial called SISTER, aimed at improving treatment for ischemic strokes. This trial focuses on patients who arrive at the emergency department between 4.5 to 24 hours after stroke onset and who are not eligible for standard therapies. Led by Dr. Josh Abecassis, the trial will explore the investigational drug TS23, a novel clot-dissolving medication. The study aims to enhance recovery and reduce long-term neurological damage for stroke patients.

Louisville Initiates Clinical Trial to Improve Ischemic Stroke Treatments

The University of Louisville (UofL) and UofL Health are leading a groundbreaking clinical trial to explore innovative treatments for ischemic strokes, a serious health condition that affects over 750,000 individuals in the United States each year. Ischemic strokes, which account for 87% of all strokes, occur when a blood clot or blockage interrupts the flow of blood to the brain, making immediate medical intervention critical for minimizing neurological damage and reducing the risk of disability or death.

In Kentucky, strokes rank as the fifth leading cause of death, underscoring the urgent need for improved treatment options. The clinical trial, named the Strategy for Improving Stroke Treatment Response (SISTER), is focused on patients who arrive at the emergency department 4.5 to 24 hours after the onset of symptoms and who do not qualify for conventional treatment options. These standard methods typically involve approved clot-dissolving medications and mechanical interventions designed to restore blood flow.

Dr. Josh Abecassis, a neurosurgeon and associate professor at the UofL School of Medicine, is leading the SISTER trial. The aim is to provide participating patients with access to cutting-edge therapies during a critical period for stroke treatment. Before treatment, patients will undergo an exhaustive evaluation and imaging process to determine their eligibility for the study. Those qualified will be randomly assigned to receive either the investigational drug TS23, a novel clot-dissolving medication, or a placebo. TS23 is administered through a single 20-minute infusion, marking a significant advancement in ischemic stroke treatment.

Participants in the study will undergo follow-up evaluations at 30 hours, 30 days, and 90 days post-treatment to assess their outcomes and recovery progress. The overarching goal of the SISTER trial is to enhance recovery rates, minimize long-term neurological consequences, and expand access to advanced stroke care through diligent research and innovative treatments.

Recognizing Stroke Symptoms

Stroke emergencies require swift action. The acronym BE FAST serves as a reminder of the critical symptoms to watch for:

• Balance: Look for sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• Eyes: Check for sudden vision changes, including blurriness or double vision.
• Face: Notice if one side of the face droops or feels numb.
• Arms: Observe if one arm drifts downward when raised.
• Speech: Speech may become slurred, or the person may have difficulty speaking.
• Time: Time is of the essence. Seek emergency medical assistance immediately upon observing any symptoms.

Quick response when recognizing symptoms can significantly affect a patient’s treatment options and long-term recovery prospects.

Crisis Impact and Future Directions

Strokes remain a critical health issue, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing research and innovative treatments within this field. The SISTER trial represents a vital step forward in addressing the gaps in treating ischemic strokes, especially for patients who currently have limited options due to timing and compatibility with existing treatments.

Key Information

• Location: University of Louisville, Kentucky
• Clinical Trial Name: Strategy for Improving Stroke Treatment Response (SISTER)
• Focus: Patients 4.5 to 24 hours post-stroke onset;
• Investigational Treatment: TS23 (clot-dissolving drug);
• Follow-up Evaluations: 30 hours, 30 days, 90 days post-treatment;

FAQs

Study Overview

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• UofL Investigating New Stroke Treatments
• Cureus Article on Stroke
• Lane Report on UofL Hospital Stroke Care
• Wikipedia: Stroke
• Google Search: Ischemic Stroke Treatment

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