The Neurovascular Research Unit (NRU) at the Complutense Medical School is fully committed to the understanding of cerebrovascular diseases, with special emphasis on stroke and vascular dementias, at both basic and clinical levels. Stroke is among the first causes of death, disability and dementia, with very high health impact and socio-economic cost. . In addition to stroke, several subclinical cerebrovascular lesions account for vascular cognitive impairment and vascular dementia. In this context, our lines of investigation include the study of brain damage after stroke and the search of therapeutic and diagnostic targets of these diseases. We are also focused on the development of novel ways to help the brain repair itself to restore lost functions. The research activity in the NRU has a strong translational projection through the close interaction with clinical neurologists in several hospitals. In addition, a major aim of the NRU has been to generate scientific results with good prospects for the transition to the industry that contribute to health care advancement and innovation. Finally, as part of academia, a cardinal objective of NRU is the training of future researchers and university professors and lecturers, as well as the generation of knowledge (mentoring of more than 15 PhD doctoral theses).