New method for evaluating the effects of neuroprotective therapy in the hemodynamic penumbra

Abstract

Recently, we established a novel temporal correlation mapping (TCM) technique in combination with high-resolution functional computed tomography (CT) scanning to analyze the temporal changes in bolus transit dynamics of iodinated contrast agents in focal cerebral ischemia. Based on changes in the temporal dynamics of blood flow, we defined a new kind of penumbra and core in focal ischemia: the hemodynamic penumbra and hemodynamic core. We visualized for the first time a larger hemodynamic core and smaller hemodynamic penumbra in endothelial NOS knockout mice than in wild type mice early after focal ischemia by using the TCM analysis technique. In addition, neuroprotective effects of the water-soluble AMPA receptor antagonist YM872 were for the first time observed in the hemodynamic penumbra after focal ischemia. In conclusion, early TCM analysis could be used to directly and quantitatively evaluate the effects of neuroprotective therapy and the evolution of neuronal damage in the hemodynamic penumbra.