Dr. Spiros Blackburn is a neurosurgeon at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and UTHealth Houston, dedicated to advancing the fields of cerebrovascular and skull base surgery. Board-certified and proficient in both endoscopic and endovascular neurosurgery, his research focuses on the mechanisms and treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Dr. Blackburn graduated summa cum laude from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, and earned his medical degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. He completed his residency at Washington University in St. Louis, followed by a cerebrovascular fellowship at Emory University in Atlanta and a neuro-endovascular fellowship at Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology at Washington University. Before joining UT Physicians Neurosciences, Dr. Blackburn held a faculty appointment as an assistant professor of neurosurgery at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

Please tell us your background, where you are from, schooling, etc.

A summa cum laude graduate of Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, received medical degree at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. After concluding residency at Washington University in St. Louis, I am completed a cerebrovascular fellowship at Emory University in Atlanta and a neuro-endovascular fellowship at Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology at Washington University. Prior to joining UT Physicians Neurosciences, I have held a faculty appointment as assistant professor of neurosurgery at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

What led you to become involved with brain aneurysm research?

My journey into brain aneurysm research was ignited by a profound respect for the complexity of the human brain and a deep-seated desire to improve patient outcomes. The intricate interplay of neurological functions and the devastating consequences of an aneurysm rupture compelled me to dedicate my career to unraveling the mysteries of this condition. Driven by a passion for scientific inquiry and a commitment to translating research into tangible benefits for patients, I have focused my efforts on understanding the underlying mechanisms of SAH pathology, and treatment.

In the simplest terms, what is the purpose of your project?

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a serious health issue because it often leads to death or long-term health problems. While advances in treatment have reduced the initial death rate, the long-term outlook for SAH survivors remains poor. Understanding the factors contributing to death following SAH is crucial for improving its outcomes. Our project aims to understand how blood flow and brain function in the brain after SAH contributes to early deaths. We also want to find out if targeting a specific cell communication system (the Wnt pathway) can help increase survival rates after such brain bleeds.

In the simplest terms, what do you hope will change through your research findings?

Our central hypothesis is that Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) progressively impairs cerebrovascular function throughout life, leading to a shortened lifespan. We propose that early or late vascular repair interventions can prolong the lifespan of SAH mice. Enhancing life expectancy after a stroke is essential for alleviating its burden and improving survivors’ well-being. The proposed project is innovative, as no studies have been conducted to determine the cause and extend the lifespan of post-stroke patients.

Why is the funding you are receiving through the Brain Aneurysm Foundation so important?

Our novel strategy primes for an effective treatment to mitigate long-term disabilities and enhance overall quality of life for patients. The current grant will be instrumental in identifying key factors that contribute to extending the lifespan of post-stroke patients. By focusing on these critical determinants, our research aims to uncover new insights that can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Additionally, this grant will facilitate the generation of preliminary data, which is essential for laying the groundwork for future, more comprehensive studies in this area.