Neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and MRI indices of functional recovery from stroke

This article analyzes the mechanisms underlying the potentiation of functional recovery poststroke by cell-based and pharmacologic agents, which amplify endogenous neurogenesis in the subventricular zone and angiogenesis in the border of the ischemic lesion in the animal. Discussion of the interaction between angiogenesis and neurogenesis is provided and data are described demonstrating a role for matrix metalloproteinases expressed in periinfarct vasculature as chemotactic for neuroblasts migrating from the subventricular zone. Monitoring angiogenesis and structural changes in the ischemic brain associated with functional recovery by means of MRI is described. We demonstrate that injured brain can be stimulated to promote angiogenesis and neurogenesis, which are coupled restorative processes that contribute to functional recovery from stroke and that MRI indices of these neurorestorative events are highly correlative with neurologic function and may be used in real-time monitoring of recovery from stroke.