Cerebrovascular disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the blood vessels and blood supply to the brain. It includes stroke, carotid stenosis, vertebral stenosis, intracranial stenosis, aneurysms, and vascular malformations. Blood usually reaches the brain via two sets of arteries, the carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries, and blood leaves the brain via the jugular and other veins.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Stroke can be divided into three main categories: 

• Haemorrhagic: When an artery in the brain bursts 

• Ischaemic: When a blockage occurs in an artery in the brain

• Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA): A temporary disruption to the blood supply of the brain, often indicative of a larger stroke in the future
  
  

Whatever the underlying cause, it is important that the supply of blood to the brain is restored as soon as possible to prevent any damage caused by a lack of oxygen and nutrients. Neurons in the brain cannot regenerate, meaning that a stroke can result in lasting physical, cognitive and mental effects. There are multiple risk factors for stroke, including diabetes, a key research theme of the NIHR Sheffield BRC. 

Our aims

Research within the NIHR Sheffield BRC aims to increase the treatments available for cerebrovascular disease, increase the life expectancy for people with cerebrovascular disease and demonstrate the advantages of novel antithrombotic regimens in patients with stroke, achieving better balancing of ischaemic and bleeding risks. We also conduct research that aims to lower the levels of systemic inflammation, including during hypoglycaemia, in order to reduce long-term atherothrombotic risk. Our research outputs will support phase 3 studies of novel antithrombotic regimens in patients with diabetes and novel drug regimens and interventions in acute stroke management and recovery.