Therapeutic Approaches to Enhance Neuronal Survival in Ischemic Stroke: Insights from Experimental Models

Abstract

Ischemic stroke remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, characterized by sudden interruption of cerebral blood flow leading to neuronal death through mechanisms such as excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Experimental models, including rodent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), have been instrumental in elucidating these pathways and testing therapeutic interventions. This review synthesizes insights from preclinical studies on neuroprotective strategies, including pharmacological agents targeting excitotoxicity and oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory therapies, anti-apoptotic approaches, cell-based therapies, hypothermia, ischemic conditioning, and novel modalities like miRNA modulation and phytochemicals. Despite translational challenges, these models highlight promising avenues for enhancing neuronal survival, emphasizing the need for pleiotropic therapies and rigorous preclinical design to improve clinical outcomes.