Novel strategies for improvement of outcomes after stroke

This thesis aimed to improve treatments for ischaemic stroke, a condition caused by blocked blood flow to the brain and a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Current treatments are limited by a narrow therapeutic window and risk of serious bleeding complications. This research developed SCE5-µPlg, a novel drug designed to selectively target blood clots and become activated only at the site of thrombosis. Laboratory and animal studies demonstrated that SCE5-µPlg can promote clot dissolution, restore blood flow, and reduce brain injury without causing significant bleeding, supporting its potential as a safer and more effective approach for stroke treatment.