Reduced peri-infarct dysfunction with pre-stroke exercise : molecular and physiological correlates

Abstract

The effects of pre-stroke exercise and levesl of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on behavioural and functional recovery were examined following focal cortical ischemic infarct.

Intracortical microstimulation (ICMS) was used to derive topographical maps of forelimb representations within the motor cortex and ischemia was induced via bipolar coagulation of surface vasculature. One month of excerise prior to ischemia significantly increased the amount of peri-infarct movement represnetations and initiates vascular changes within motor

cortex. Further, this exercise-induced preservation of peri-infarct movement representations is associated with behavioural recovery and is dependent on BDNF levels in the motor cortex. These results provide further support for the idea that endurance exercise prior to stroke may enhance functional and behavioural recovery.