Characterization of Hippocampal Adult-borne Granule Cells in a Transient Cerebral Ischemia Model

Abstract

Long-term consequences of stroke significantly impair the quality of life in a growing population of stroke survivors. Hippocampal adult neurogenesis has been hypothesized to play a role in the pathophysiology of cognitive and neuropsychiatric long-term sequelae of stroke. Reliable animal models of stroke are paramount to understanding their biomechanisms and to advancing therapeutic strategies. We present a detailed protocol of a transient cerebral ischemia model which does not cause direct ischemic damage in the hippocampus, allowing investigations into the pathophysiology of long-term neurocognitive deficits of stroke. Furthermore, we describe a protocol for obtaining acute hippocampal slices for the purpose of electrophysiological and morphological characterization of adult-borne granule cells. Particularities relating to performing electrophysiological recordings from small cells, such as immature adult-borne granule cells, are also discussed. The present protocol may be complemented by multi-modal investigations (behavioral, morpho-structural, biochemical), to hopefully facilitate research and advances into the long-term sequelae of stroke and the discovery of new therapeutic opportunities.