In short
There is currently 1 ongoing clinical trial investigating new treatments for carotid artery occlusion, a condition involving narrowing of the major blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. The trial is exploring whether omalizumab, a medication that reduces inflammation, can help manage plaque buildup in the carotid arteries.
Clinical trial locations
Study on the Effects of Omalizumab on Carotid Artery Stenosis in Patients Undergoing Carotid Endarterectomy
This trial is investigating whether omalizumab can reduce inflammation in patients with carotid artery stenosis who are scheduled for surgery. The study focuses on understanding how this medication affects certain inflammatory cells called mast cells within the fatty deposits that build up in the arteries.
Main inclusion criteria:
- Patients must be 18 years of age or older
- Must be able and willing to provide informed consent
- Must have carotid artery stenosis with at least 50% narrowing of the artery
- Must be scheduled for carotid endarterectomy, a surgical procedure to remove plaque buildup from the carotid artery
Main exclusion criteria:
- Patients who have already undergone carotid endarterectomy
- Patients outside the specified age range
- Patients considered part of vulnerable populations who may be at higher risk during the study
Focus and goal of the trial:
The study aims to determine whether a short course of omalizumab can reduce the activation of mast cells within atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques are fatty deposits that build up in the arteries and contribute to narrowing. Researchers will measure inflammation levels, immune cell activity, and various markers in both the blood and the plaques themselves. The trial will also assess safety by monitoring for any complications such as blood clots. By targeting mast cell activity, the study hopes to provide insights into new treatment options that could help manage this condition and potentially reduce the risk of stroke.
Investigational drug:
The medication being tested is omalizumab, also known by the brand name Xolair. It is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which play a role in inflammation and allergic reactions. In this study, omalizumab is administered as an injection into the muscle. While it is already used to treat certain allergic conditions, researchers are now exploring whether it can help reduce inflammation in the arteries and improve outcomes for patients with carotid artery stenosis.
Summary
Currently, there is one clinical trial underway for patients with carotid artery occlusion, taking place in the Netherlands. This trial is focused on testing omalizumab, a medication originally developed for allergic conditions, to see if it can reduce inflammation within the plaques that cause artery narrowing. The study specifically targets patients who are already scheduled for surgical treatment, providing an opportunity to examine the effects of the medication on both the plaques themselves and various markers of inflammation in the body. The trial represents an innovative approach to managing this condition by addressing the inflammatory processes that contribute to plaque development and potential complications.
