Takotsubo Syndrome – Exploring the Precursor Stages

The primary aim of this project is to investigate the shared pathophysiological mechanisms underlying TTS and acute neurological disorders through a comprehensive assessment of microvascular and functional alterations in the heart and brain. We hypothesize that both conditions may be associated with a stress-related microvascular dysfunction driven by autonomic dysregulation and inflammation. This project will aim to: - Characterize cardiac microvascular dysfunction in patients with acute neurological events (e.g., stroke, seizures, TGA); - Investigate the structural and functional interactions between heart and brain in patients with acute neurological events and TTS using advanced imaging (CMR, cerebral MRI, Doppler echocardiography); - Identify biomarker profiles associated with microvascular dysfunction in these patients; - Lay the groundwork for personalized therapeutic strategies in TTS through a multicenter interventional study. The project builds on the applicant’s previous work within the InterTAK Registry and related neurocardiological investigations. It complements and expands existing research by explicitly focusing on the early, potentially reversible, pathophysiological changes occurring in both organs. The results are expected to enhance clinical risk stratification, improve interdisciplinary diagnostics, and guide the development of targeted therapies.