The aim of acute ischemic stroke treatment is a rapid dissolution of the occlusive clot. Systemic thrombolysis is an evidence-based therapy whose recanalizing potential is, among other factors, limited by the structural composition of stroke thrombi. Within this project, the scientists aim to gain improved pathophysiological understanding of the structural determinants of stroke thrombi, the influence of pre-existing anticoagulation, and factors mediating thrombolysis resistance. To this end, stroke thrombi will be examined using novel histological staining protocols, analyzed by automated image analysis, and compared with biomarkers derived from corresponding blood samples. Furthermore, ex vivo thrombolysis experiments will be conducted to contribute to the development of new and improved thrombolytic agents.