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Histopathological and ultrastructural changes in different cell types during ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke
Houlian Zhang1, Na Xing2, Junmin Wang3
1Department of Pain Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, PR China; Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, PR China.
Ageing Research Reviews
|July 27, 2025
Summary
This review details ultrastructural changes in brain cells and the blood-brain barrier following stroke. Understanding these cellular alterations can improve stroke diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Stroke causes significant morbidity and mortality with limited treatment options.
- Pathologic alterations at the ultrastructural level in neurons and glial cells are key features of stroke.
- The blood-brain barrier is compromised post-stroke, exacerbating damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and analyze ultrastructural pathological changes in ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
- To provide insights into dynamic subcellular structural changes after stroke.
- To enhance understanding for improved clinical diagnosis and therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of studies documenting ultrastructural changes.
- Analysis of findings from transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
- Focus on both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke models.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of alterations in neuronal cell bodies, neurites, and synapses.
- Observed changes in glial cells (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes).
- Documented compromise of the blood-brain barrier at the ultrastructural level.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive understanding of ultrastructural changes is crucial for advancing stroke research.
- Identifying dynamic subcellular alterations can lead to novel therapeutic targets.
- This review serves as a foundation for future research in stroke pathology and treatment.
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