SELECTIVE BLOCKADE OF N-TYPE VOLTAGE-SENSITIVE CALCIUM CHANNELS PROTECTS AGAINST BRAIN INJURY AFTER TRANSIENT FOCAL CEREBRAL-ISCHEMIA IN RATS

The neuroprotective efficacy of the selective N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channel blocker, SNX-111, was evaluated in spontaneously hype rtensive rats subjected to 60 min of focal cerebral ischemia by perman ent ligation of the right common carotid artery and temporary occlusio n of the right middle cerebral artery. Intravenous infusion of 167 mu g/kg per min SNX-111 for 30 min (5 mg/kg), initiated immediately after reperfusion, significantly reduced cortical infarct volumes measured 24 h after the ischemic insult.