A more consistent intraluminal rhesus monkey model of ischemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Vascular Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Endovascular surgery offers advantages over traditional methods for ischemic stroke models.
• High variability in current stroke models limits accurate evaluation.
• Developing precise, reproducible models is crucial for advancing stroke research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion model in rhesus monkeys using endovascular microcoils.
• To compare the outcomes of occlusion at the M1 versus M2 segments of the middle cerebral artery.
• To assess the utility of this model for brain injury research.

Main Methods:

• Eight rhesus monkeys were randomized into M1 and M2 middle cerebral artery occlusion groups.
• A 2-hour occlusion was achieved using an endovascular microcoil technique.
• Model validation included digital subtraction angiography, MRI, and neurological evaluations.

Main Results:

• The endovascular microcoil technique successfully established reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion in all subjects.
• Ischemic lesions and neurological deficits were observed 24 hours post-occlusion.
• The M2 occlusion group exhibited significantly smaller infarction volumes and better neurological scores than the M1 group.

Conclusions:

• Reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion can be reliably induced in rhesus monkeys via endovascular microcoil placement.
• The M2 occlusion model demonstrates reduced infarction and neurological impairment, making it a valuable tool for brain injury research.