Experimental neuroprotection in ischemic stroke: a concise review

Abstract

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. To date, intravenous tissue plasminogen activator and mechanical thrombectomy have been standards of care for AIS. There have been many advances in diagnostic imaging and endovascular devices for AIS; however, most neuroprotective therapies seem to remain largely in the preclinical phase. While many neuroprotective therapies have been identified in experimental models, none are currently used routinely to treat stroke patients. This review seeks to summarize clinical studies pertaining to neuroprotection, as well as the different preclinical neuroprotective therapies, their presumed mechanisms of action, and their future applications in stroke patients.

Keywords: AIS = acute ischemic stroke; MB = methylene blue; MCA = middle cerebral artery; NMDAR = N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor; Treg = regulatory T cell; acute ischemic stroke; excitotoxicity; free radical; immune response; neuroprotection.