Pathophysiologic cascades in ischemic stroke

Int J Stroke. 2012 Jul;7(5):378-85. doi: 10.1111/j.1747-4949.2012.00839.x.

Abstract

Many advances have been achieved in terms of understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of ischemic stroke. But thus far, clinically effective neuroprotectants remain elusive. In this minireview, we summarize the basics of ischemic cascades after stroke, covering neuronal death mechanisms, white matter pathophysiology, and inflammation with an emphasis on microglia. Translating promising mechanistic knowledge into clinically meaningful stroke drugs is very challenging. An integrative approach that encompasses the multimodal and multicell signaling phenomenon of stroke will be required to move forward.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain / metabolism
  • Brain / pathology*
  • Brain Ischemia / drug therapy
  • Brain Ischemia / etiology*
  • Brain Ischemia / pathology
  • Cell Death / physiology
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation / drug effects
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation / physiology
  • Encephalitis / pathology
  • Humans
  • Microglia / pathology
  • Neuroprotective Agents / therapeutic use
  • Stroke / drug therapy
  • Stroke / etiology*
  • Stroke / pathology

Substances

  • Neuroprotective Agents