Rat model of perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain damage

To gain insights into the pathogenesis and management of perinatal hypoxic- ischemic brain damage, the authors have used an immature rat model which th ey developed many years ago, The model entails ligation of one common carot id artery followed thereafter by systemic hypoxia, The insult produces perm anent hypoxic-ischemic brain damage limited to the cerebral hemisphere ipsi lateral to the carotid artery occlusion. The mini-review describes recently accomplished research pertaining to the use of the immature rat model, spe cifically, investigations involving energy metabolism, glucose transporter proteins, free radical injury, and seizures superimposed upon cerebral hypo xia-ischemia. Future research will focus on molecular mechanisms of neurona l injury with a continuing focus on therapeutic strategies to prevent or mi nimize hypoxic-ischemic brain damage. J. Neurosci. Res. 55:158-163, 1999. ( C) 1999 Wiley-liss, Inc.