SUMMARY
The long-term research goals of Ram Kadirvel, Ph.D., are centered around enhancing the clinical outcomes of people with cerebrovascular diseases. His research group uses computational, biological and engineering tools to investigate molecular and hemodynamic changes in neurovascular diseases. This multidisciplinary approach develops improved therapeutic techniques.
Focus areas
Cerebral aneurysms. Dr. Kadirvel focuses on advancing the field of intracranial flow diversion, which currently is used in about one-third of all treated unruptured intracranial aneurysms. The primary focus is to characterize the mechanisms of aneurysm healing following flow diversion treatment.
Dr. Kadirvel also develops innovative models and therapies aimed at improving the clinical management of cerebral aneurysms.
He investigates the role of rapid fibrin deposition at the aneurysm's neck within the flow diversion device. The fibrin deposition contributes to robust aneurysm healing.
Dr. Kadirvel assesses the suitability and validity of using superior mesenteric artery branches in rabbit models to simulate the patency of small perforating vessels covered by flow diverters.
He establishes correlations between biological and imaging data and delayed ischemic events observed in people undergoing flow diverter therapy.
Dr. Kadirvel pioneers the development of new bioresorbable metallic flow diverters to mitigate risks associated with permanent metal implant devices.
He creates magnetic flow diverters designed for local cell delivery to advance the rapid healing of aneurysms.
Thrombolysis resistance in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Thrombolysis resistance poses a significant challenge in treating acute ischemic stroke caused by large vessel occlusion (LVO) AIS, resulting in low recanalization rates with current thrombolytic therapies. Recent research indicates that neutrophil extracellular traps and the formation of a protective shell around thrombi contribute to resistance against fibrinolysis.
Dr. Kadirvel's research strives to uncover the mechanisms responsible for thrombolysis resistance, including the role of hypoxia and post-translational modifications. Dr. Kadirvel's goal is to advance treatment strategies targeting thrombolysis-resistant emboli to improve the care provided to individuals with LVO AIS.
Arteriovenous malformations. Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) are rare cerebrovascular lesions, characterized by unusual vascular niduses, resulting in direct arterial-to-venous shunting. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is the preferred minimally invasive treatment for bAVMs, but a significant percentage may not disappear after SRS.
Dr. Kadirvel's studies aim to characterize the mechanisms by which bAVMs obliterate in response to radiosurgery, and he pioneers targeted medical therapies to accelerate bAVM obliteration. Dr. Kadirvel seeks to address the lack of early markers to monitor the responsiveness of lesions to radiosurgery.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Kadirvel's research program aims to significantly enhance the tools used to study new treatments for people with cerebrovascular diseases. His research enables the development of personalized treatment plans.
His research could result in less invasive aneurysm therapies, improved stroke treatment outcomes and enhanced monitoring of arteriovenous malformation responses to radiosurgery. Ultimately, this research has the potential to raise the standard of care for individuals with cerebrovascular diseases.
Professional highlights
- Associate basic science editor, Interventional Neuroradiology, 2022-present.
- Fellow, American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, 2021-present.
- Carman Award for Research Excellence, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 2017.
- Scientific development grant, American Heart Association, 2009-2012.
- Postdoctoral research fellowship, American Heart Association, 2006.