A Modified Transcranial Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Model to Study Stroke Outcomes in Aged Mice
May 5th, 2023
This protocol demonstrates a unique mouse stroke model with a medium-sized infarct and an excellent survival rate. This model allows preclinical stroke researchers to extend the ischemia duration, use aged mice, and assess long-term functional outcomes.
Stroke affects nearly 800, 000 people annually in the US.Around 87%of this, ischemic, presenting as a severe medical condition. However, there are limited treatment options available especially during the chronic stroke phase. Our research aims to develop a recovery enhancing therapy to reduce disability and improve the quality of life for stroke patients.
They widely use the filament, the middle cerebral artery occlusion model, as a drawback where the inserted filament can block a blood flow to the posterior cerebral artery. The C57BL/6 in mice often have an undisturbed posterior communicating artery leading to a high mortality in the later chronic stroke recovery phase. Our modified transcranial middle cerebral artery occlusion model partially across the MCA at the trunk generating brain damage in the cortex and the striatum via a small cranial window.
This model achieves a high long-term survival rate, detectable neurological deficits, and works well even in aged mice. Our transcranial MCAO model can incorporate the critical attributes of clinical stroke, such as delayed reperfusion, neurological deficits, and aging factor. This model can be used to evaluate the therapeutical potential of new stroke treatments on long-term function recovery.
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Overview
This study presents a novel mouse stroke model, focusing on a modified transcranial middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) technique. The model creates a medium-sized infarct while allowing for evaluation of long-term functional outcomes, especially in aged mice. It aims to address the challenges associated with ischemic stroke and enhance therapeutic efficacy.
Key Study Components
Area of Science
- Neuroscience
- Stroke research
- Preclinical models
Background
- Stroke is a significant health concern, impacting nearly 800,000 individuals annually in the US, with ischemic strokes being the most common.
- Current treatment options are limited, particularly during the chronic phase of stroke recovery.
- Existing models, like the filament-based MCAO, have limitations, such as high mortality rates due to collateral blood flow.
- The study addresses the necessity for better models to test recovery-enhancing therapies.
Purpose of Study
- To develop a stroke model with a higher survival rate and to evaluate long-term outcomes post-stroke.
- To investigate the effects of aging on stroke recovery.
- To assess the potential of new therapeutic interventions in improving outcomes for stroke patients.
Methods Used
- The study utilizes a modified transcranial middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model.
- Aged C57BL/6 mice are employed to assess neurological deficits and long-term functional recovery.
- The model allows delayed reperfusion and evaluation of key recovery phases.
- Neurological assessments and survival rate tracking are conducted post-occlusion.
Main Results
- The modified MCAO model achieved a high survival rate and detectable neurological deficits.
- It successfully demonstrated the ability to model critical aspects of clinical stroke, including delayed reperfusion.
- The evaluation highlighted the critical attributes influencing long-term recovery in aged mice.
- Findings support the model's utility for testing therapeutic interventions aimed at improving stroke outcomes.
Conclusions
- The study demonstrates a robust stroke model that can be used to understand recovery mechanisms in strokes.
- This model provides a platform for testing new therapies and addressing limitations of existing methodologies.
- It contributes valuable insights into the interplay between aging and stroke recovery.
