C1-esterase inhibitor reduces infarct volume after cortical vein occlusion

In order to clarify the role of complement as a mediator of cerebral infarct growth, we inhibited the classical complement activation pathway in a photochemical cortical vein occlusion model. Immediately after occlusion, rats were infused with either 0.9% saline (vehicle), or C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) over 30 min. Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) decreased after occlusion, and was about 50% of baseline after 2 h. No difference was noted between experimental groups. Mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and arterial blood gases were likewise unaffected by the treatment. However, administration of C1-INH had significantly reduced infarct volume by 72%, as evaluated after 5 days survival. Thus, the neuroprotective effect cannot be explained by an improvement of cerebral perfusion but rather by protection of the parenchyma in the penumbra.