Marilyn Cipolla, Ph.D.

Eleven scientists leading the way in stroke research, including University of Vermont Professor of Neurological Sciences Marilyn Cipolla, Ph.D., were recognized for their exceptional achievements during the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2021 (ISC) on March 17-19. The group of honorees includes four groundbreaking scientists who have devoted their careers to stroke research, six authors of notable new research and one scientist recognized for outstanding mentorship.

Cipolla was honored as the recipient of the Thomas Willis Lecture Award, which recognizes contributions to the investigation and management of stroke basic science. Cipolla was selected for her important discoveries and significant contributions to the understanding of stroke through basic science research. As a vascular biologist, she has improved understanding of how stroke and seizure affect the structure and function of the brain’s circulation and can impact disease outcomes. Her work has led to a greater understanding of regional differences within brain circulation and how cerebral blood vessels respond to stroke, which have laid the groundwork for targeted therapies. Currently, Cipolla is working to better define the function of collateral vessels in the brain in relation to stroke and how that impacts risk factors for stroke and cognitive deficits. Cipolla’s Willis Lecture, titled “Targeting Brain Arterioles for Acute Stroke Treatment,” was made available to registered ISC attendees in an On Demand, pre-recorded session on March 17.

The three-day ISC conference featured more than 1,200 compelling presentations in 21 categories that emphasized basic, clinical, and translational sciences as they evolve toward a better understanding of stroke pathophysiology with the goal of developing more effective therapies. All award winners’ lectures and presentations were pre-recorded and available for On Demand viewing to registered attendees.

About the American Stroke Association
The American Stroke Association is devoted to saving people from stroke — the number two cause of death in the world and a leading cause of serious disability. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat stroke. The Dallas-based association officially launched in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org.

(This article was adapted from a press release produced by the American Heart Association Communications & Media Relations office.)