Induction of Acute Ischemic Stroke in Mice Using the Distal Middle Artery Occlusion Technique

In the present research, we aim to provide a comprehensive and detailed protocol for establish middle cerebral artery occlusion model in C57BL/6J mice using transcranial electrocoagulation and we evaluated the subsequent neurological behavior and histopathological features. The middle cerebral artery or MCA is recognized as the primary site of ischemic stroke in humans. The MCA occlusion methods, including technique, photochemical introduction, and occlusion have been extensively employed to induce focal cerebral ischemia in rodents.

Compared to other ischemia stroke models, this model has the advantage of less surgical invasiveness, smaller infarct size, and higher survival rate, rendering it more suitable for investigation the long-term functional recovery after ischemic stroke. Overall, the current approach effectively generates a reliable experimental ischemic stroke model that exhibits high survivability and excellent repeatability. Consequently, this methodology serves as an invaluable tool for both foundation and translational research in the field of stroke.

In the future, we will employ behavior paradigms such as novel object recognition and water maze to investigate the dynamic alterations in long-term learning and memory capabilities among distal MCA-occluded mice. This will enable us to ascertain the viability of utilizing them as animal model for cognition-impairment studies post-stroke.