HRI researchers led by Professor Shaun Jackson have developed an anti-clotting drug that offers new hope to stroke sufferers. This drug, which has successfully completed two phase I clinical trials, has the potential to improve blood flow to the brain following stroke onset, reducing associated death and disability.

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally, with 16 million people suffering strokes annually. There is only one approved drug for the acute treatment of stroke, a thrombolytic agent which is the current standard of care. Unfortunately, this drug has many limitations, including bleeding side effects, which reduce its effectiveness and suitability for many stroke patients.

Thanks to a $2.7 million federal government grant, HRI’s groundbreaking research can progress to phase II clinical trials in stroke patients. A collaboration between The George Institute for Global Health and HRI will facilitate the academic-led clinical trial planned to be conducted by leading stroke units across Australia.

Over 250 media stories have been run about this exciting research.