Long-lasting regeneration after ischemia in the cerebral cortex

Ronen R. Leker, Frank Soldner, Ivan Velasco, Denise K. Gavin, Andreas Androutsellis-Theotokis, Ronald D.G. McKay

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

170 Scopus citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE - Because fibroblast growth factor 2 is a mitogen for central nervous system stem cells, we explored whether long-term fibroblast growth factor 2 delivery to the brain can improve functional outcome and induce cortical neurogenesis after ischemia. METHODS - Rats underwent permanent distal middle cerebral artery occlusion resulting in an ischemic injury limited to the cortex. We used an adeno-associated virus transfection system to induce long-term fibroblast growth factor 2 expression and monitored behavioral and histological changes. RESULTS - Treatment increased the number of proliferating cells and improved motor behavior. Neurogenesis continued throughout 90 days after the ischemia, and the occurrence of newly generated cells with characteristics of neural precursors and immature neurons was most evident 90 days after treatment. CONCLUSIONS - Focal cortical ischemia elicits an ongoing neurogenic response that can be enhanced with fibroblast growth factor 2 leading to improved functional outcome.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)153-161
Number of pages9
JournalStroke
Volume38
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2007
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Growth factors
  • Neural progenitors
  • Neural stem cells
  • Neurogenesis
  • Stroke

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Neurology
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Advanced and Specialized Nursing

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