This study investigates the effects of theta-burst rTMS on focal ischemic stroke in rats. The research focuses on how rTMS can restore blood-brain barrier integrity and reduce neuronal death through modulation of astrocyte activity.
Take a rat with a focal ischemic stroke in the brain cortex, resulting in a compromised BBB, reduced blood flow, and excessive neuronal activity.
Stroke also induces astrocyte activation, leading to the formation of neurotoxic astrocytes that release pro-inflammatory cytokines.
This triggers neuroinflammation, leading to neuronal and endothelial cell degeneration.
Restrain the rat and position the rTMS coil over the ischemic region.
Administer theta-burst rTMS for several days.
The electromagnetic pulses penetrate the skull, reach the ischemic region, and stimulate interneurons to release inhibitory neurotransmitters.
These neurotransmitters activate receptors on overactive neurons, inducing chloride influx, which suppresses excessive neuronal activity and reduces neuronal death.
Additionally, the pulses convert neurotoxic astrocytes into a neuroprotective phenotype that releases anti-inflammatory factors to restore BBB integrity.
rTMS also stimulates endothelial cells in the BBB to secrete growth factors, promoting blood vessel formation and restoring cerebral blood flow.
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