NCT04321512 · UConn Health
Study of Circulating Monocytes in Patients With Ischemic Vascular Disease
What this study is about
The purpose of this research study is to discover the functions of circulating white blood cells, called monocytes, and associated circulating substances in heart attack and ischemic stroke patients. Ischemic Strokes (clots) occur as a result of an obstruction within a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this research study is to discover the functions of circulating white blood cells, called monocytes, and associated circulating substances in heart attack and ischemic stroke patients. Ischemic Strokes (clots) occur as a result of an obstruction within a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain. A type of monocyte carrying a surface marker called "P2X4" helps the immune system sense and respond to danger signals from the body such as heart muscle and brain tissue injuries. The researchers expect to learn more about how these monocyte cells react to heart and brain tissue injury, and how the cells may then produce proteins or other chemical substances which promote the healing of heart muscle after heart attack and brain tissue after an ischemic stroke.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- STEMI Patients: Men and women aged 18 years and over, with symptoms, physical signs and ECG changes characteristic of STEMI.
- NSTEMI Patients: Men and women aged 18 years and over, with symptoms, physical signs and ECG changes characteristic of NSTEMI.
- Stable CAD Patients: men and women aged 18 years and older with coronary artery disease proven by prior MI history, angiography or stress test but without any unstable angina or acute coronary syndrome.
- Ischemic Stroke Patients: Men and women aged 18 years and over, with symptoms, physical signs and CT/MRI changes characteristic of ischemic stroke.
- Healthy Controls: Men and women aged 18 years and over, without heart failure, coronary disease, hypertension, diabetes or other chronic diseases. Control subjects will be recruited from within the community of UConn Health via advertisement.
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects who are unable to give informed consent (with the exception of the ischemic stroke arm patients, see Protocol Design below) and pregnant subjects.
- Subjects who had any history of embolic, ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke within the last 12 months.
Where
- Farmington, Connecticut
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 14, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations