The effects of MK-801, a neuroprotective agent, upon recovery of function from cortical damage

Abstract

Behavioral recovery was assessed following two different size lesions. In experiment 1 large unilateral electrolytic lesions including both the caudal and rostral forelimb representations of the rat's somatosensory cortex were used. In experiments 2 and 3 small unilateral electrolytic lesions were restricted to the caudal forelimb representation. The effects of MK-801, a neuroprotective agent known for its effectiveness in attenuating excitotoxic cell death, was assessed following both of these lesions. The large lesion produced chronic placing deficits with the contralateral forelimb, and chronic ipsilateral asymmetries measured over six months. MK-801 (1mg/kg; i.p.) given after the large lesion was not effective in attenuating the placing deficits, but was effective in promoting recovery from ipsilateral asymmetries. The small lesion produced transient contralateral placing deficits and ipsilateral asymmetries. MK-801 (1mg/kg; i.p.) given after the small lesion enhanced recovery from all deficits. The beneficial effects of MK-801 upon recovery were associated with its neuroprotective effects observed in the ipsilateral striatum.