The purpose of the study is to use this new MRI technique to identify and describe metabolic changes in patients with ALS and TIA. Participants in the study will receive an injection of Hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate, which will help highlight certain metabolic processes in the brain during the MRI scan. This approach aims to provide a clearer picture of how these diseases affect brain function.

Throughout the study, participants will undergo MRI scans after receiving the injection. The study will monitor how the injected substance interacts with the brain’s metabolism, focusing on how it converts to other substances like bicarbonate, lactate, and alanine. This information will be gathered alongside clinical examinations and patient interviews to better understand the impact of ALS and TIA on brain health.

The study tests whether allopurinol, a medication that lowers uric acid levels in the blood, can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Some participants will receive allopurinol tablets, while others will receive a placebo. The treatment will continue for approximately 5 years, during which participants will have regular check-ups to monitor their health status.

The main focus is to determine if allopurinol can prevent serious cardiovascular events such as heart problems, strokes, or the need for heart-related procedures. The study will also track other health changes, including heart function, blood vessel health, and the presence of long-COVID symptoms. Regular blood tests and heart examinations will be performed to monitor participants’ health throughout the study period.

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of asundexian in reducing the risk of ischemic strokes. Participants in the study will be randomly assigned to receive either asundexian or a placebo. The study will monitor the time it takes for participants to experience another ischemic stroke or any major bleeding events, which are significant bleeding episodes that can occur in the body. The trial will also look at other outcomes, such as the occurrence of any type of stroke, heart-related events, and overall survival rates.

Throughout the study, participants will take the medication orally in the form of a film-coated tablet. The trial is designed to be double-blind, meaning neither the participants nor the researchers will know who is receiving the actual medication or the placebo, ensuring unbiased results. The study aims to provide valuable information on whether asundexian can offer better protection against strokes compared to current treatments.

Participants in this study will be monitored over a period of two years. The main focus will be on assessing their daily activities and overall health-related quality of life. These aspects will be evaluated using specific surveys designed to measure how well patients are able to perform daily tasks and their mental and physical health. The study will also look at other factors such as physical functioning, emotional well-being, and any side effects from medications. Additionally, it will track the occurrence of any new cardiovascular events, like heart attacks or strokes, and overall survival rates.

The goal of this research is to provide valuable insights into the potential benefits or drawbacks of using statins in older, frail patients who have had a stroke or TIA. By understanding these effects, healthcare providers can make more informed decisions about the best treatment options for this specific group of patients. The study will help determine if stopping or not starting statins can lead to better health outcomes and quality of life for these individuals.

The purpose of the study is to explore the relationship between levels of a protein called ficolin-2 in the blood and inflammation in the brain and carotid arteries. Participants will undergo imaging with PET/MRI to assess inflammation. The study will involve taking blood samples to measure ficolin-2 levels and performing imaging tests to observe the condition of the carotid arteries and brain. The imaging will help identify features such as the size of any brain infarcts (areas of tissue damage due to lack of blood flow) and any changes in the carotid arteries, such as the presence of bleeding within the artery walls or damage to the protective layer of the artery.

Throughout the study, participants will have their blood tested and undergo imaging at specific times to monitor changes. The study aims to provide insights into how ficolin-2 levels relate to inflammation in the brain and carotid arteries, which could help improve understanding and treatment of conditions like stroke and transient ischemic attack. The trial is expected to continue until the end of 2024.