Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor But Not Forced Arm Use Improves Long-Term Outcome After Photothrombotic Stroke and Transiently Upregulates Binding Densities of Excitatory Glutamate Receptors in the Rat Brain

Abstract

Background and Purpose-Both application of neurotrophic factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and constraint-induced movement therapy like forced arm use have been shown to potentially improve outcome after stroke. The aim of the present study was to check whether postischemic long-term outcome correlates to specific modifications in the abundance of various neurotransmitter receptors. Methods-Adult male Wistar rats were subjected to photothrombotic ischemia and assigned to various treatment groups (nϭ5 each) with end points at 3 and 6 weeks: (1) ischemic control (saline); (2) BDNF (ischemia, 20 g BDNF); (3) forced arm use (ischemia, saline, and ipsilateral plaster cast for 5 or 14 days for the 3-and 6-week groups, respectively); and (4)

α-lipoic acid protects against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury in rats

“…When a neuron is damaged, BDNF performs a variety of biological effects, including preventing cell death in damaged neurons, improving the pathological state of neurons and promoting the regeneration of damaged neurons (30). In the case of cerebral I/R, BDNF may protect neurons (31)(32)(33). BDNF can activate the TrkB receptor, leading to the activation of several intracellular signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt and RAS/ERK pathways (34).…”

Modulation of Neural Plasticity as a Basis for Stroke Rehabilitation

“…99 High serum levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 after stroke are associated with neurological recovery and better functional outcome. 100,101 In experimental stroke, insulin-like growth factor 1 treatment improved motor recovery, paralleled by enhanced neovascularization and neurogenesis.…”

Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy Enhanced Neurogenesis and Behavioral Recovery after Stroke in Adult Rats

“…CIMT-treated animals were fitted with a plaster cast as described previously (Muller et al 2008). The upper torso was wrapped in soft felt, and the ipsilateral forelimb was wrapped in felt and positioned in a naturally retracted position against the animal's sternum.…”

“…The upper torso was wrapped in soft felt, and the ipsilateral forelimb was wrapped in felt and positioned in a naturally retracted position against the animal's sternum. Plaster of Paris strips were wrapped around the immobilized limb and upper torso (Muller et al 2008). CIMT-treated animals were forced to rely on their impaired completely in standard home cage without daily training.…”