Project R-8866

Low-frequency electromagnetic stimulation: exploring the (sub) cellular mechanisms in ischemic stroke (Research)

Despite the high prevalence and devastating outcome, there are only few treatment options for ischemic stroke. Our project aims to explore magnetic stimulation (MS) as a new therapeutic tool. Preliminary data of our laboratory indicates that MS increases survival and neurological outcome in rats and gerbils subjected to severe permanent stroke. MS induced migration of endothelial cells (which align the blood vessels) and production of the important messenger molecule nitric oxide by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in vitro. Successful repair after stroke consists of activating the endothelial cells and simultaneously protecting neurons from ischemic damage. Our preliminary data point to NO as a key regulator of magnetic stimulation-induced protection. Elucidating the link between magnetic stimulation, NO and brain repair after ischemic stroke is the goal of this project. We study how the produced NO promotes blood flow recovery by vessel dilatation (collateralization) in vivo. In addition, we investigate the subcellular mechanisms by which magnetic stimulation activates NOS in endothelial cells and how magnetic stimulation inhibits neuronal cell death. Insights obtained in this project will enhance our current knowledge of magnetic stimulation as well as of endogenous cellular and subcellular mechanisms after stroke.

01 October 2018 - 30 September 2022