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Effect of minaprine on "delayed neuronal death" in mongolian gerbils with occluded common carotid arteries
Abstract:
The effect of the psychotropic drug minaprine on brain ischemia induced by a 5-min bilateral occlusion of the carotid arteries in the mongolian gerbil was studied. Severe impairment of memory was apparent when the passive avoidance test was carried out 2 days after the bilaterally induced ischemia. When minaprine in a dose of 50 mg/kg was given p.o. 30 min before the 5-min occlusion, there was a significant improvement in the memory impairment. The amplitude of the hippocampal theta waves decreased and Nissl's degradation was apparent in the CA1 neurons in the hippocampus from 2 days after the 5-min occlusion. Changes in the hippocampal neurons were exacerbated with time. When minaprine in a dose of 50 mg/kg was given there was no decrease in the amplitude of hippocampal theta waves, and Nissl's degradation and the destruction and disappearance of the CA1 neurons diminished considerably. All these findings indicate that minaprine warrants further study for possible clinical prescription.
Insights
Minaprine, a psychotropic drug, significantly improved memory deficits in gerbils after induced brain ischemia. It also protected hippocampal neurons and theta wave amplitude, suggesting therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Brain ischemia can cause severe memory impairment.
- Hippocampal neurons and function are vulnerable to ischemic damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neuroprotective effects of minaprine on brain ischemia.
- To evaluate minaprine's impact on memory and hippocampal structure post-ischemia.
Main Methods:
- Mongolian gerbils underwent 5-minute bilateral carotid artery occlusion to induce brain ischemia.
- Memory was assessed using passive avoidance tests.
- Hippocampal structure and function (theta waves, neuronal integrity) were examined.
Main Results:
- Ischemia caused significant memory impairment and hippocampal CA1 neuronal damage.
- Pre-treatment with minaprine (50 mg/kg) markedly improved memory retention.
- Minaprine administration prevented the decrease in hippocampal theta wave amplitude and reduced neuronal degradation.
Conclusions:
- Minaprine demonstrates significant neuroprotective effects against ischemic brain injury.
- The drug ameliorates memory deficits and preserves hippocampal neuronal integrity.
- Minaprine shows promise as a potential therapeutic agent for clinical use in managing brain ischemia.