Behavioral reactions of gerbils and structural alterations in their hippocampus after cerebral ischemia-reperfusion

We studied changes in behavior of Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) after ischemia-reperfusion of the brain (7-min-long occlusion of both arteriae carotis) and structural alterations in the hippocampus of such animals. Behavioral manifestations were observed under conditions of the open field test within 7 days of the postischemic period; immunofluorescent staining of brain sections with antibodies against specific proteins of neurons and glial cells was used. Motor hyperactivity reaching its maximum a day after ischemization and gradually decreasing within the postocclusion period was found in ischemized animals. On the 7th day, the level of locomotor activity in experimental gerbils was practically equal to that in the control group. In contrast, a postischemic decrease in the duration of episodes of resting was preserved for a longer time. A week after ischemia-reperfusion, intense delayed neuronal death and activation of glial cells were observed in the CA1 hippocampal area. Thus, cerebral ischemia-reperfusion results in significant transient disorders of behavioral phenomena in gerbils; at the same time, a clear correlation is observed between structural changes of neurons and the level of reactivity of glial cells in the hippocampus. These events can be significant aspects of the dynamics of postischemic damage to the above structure. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]