Researchers from Karolinksa Institutet conducted a study which shows that the presence of a certain type of antibody in the immune system could lead to a stroke. They hope to be able to develop a vaccine that can mobilise the body´s own defence against arteriosclerosis and stroke.

The study focused exclusively on stroke and compared 227 individuals who had suffered stroke over a 13-year period with 445 sex and age-matched controls. The study showed that low levels of PC antibodies correlated to a higher risk of stroke.

“Were now examining the possibility of developing new immunological treatments for arteriosclerosis and stroke, either in the form of a vaccine to stimulate the immune defence or immunisation through the injection of antibodies,” says Professor Frostegård.