Grant: Operating Grant

Stroke is a sudden loss of brain function caused when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Stroke is the number one cause of chronic disability, and many stroke survivors face physical and mental challenges. Treatment is inadequate to prevent disability and promote recovery after stroke. Therefore, we are studying new treatments. We will examine how poor protein-energy nutrition that develops as a result of the stroke interferes with the ability of the brain to recover. This is important for stroke patients because 20-35 percent of patients show poor nutritional status for protein and energy by 1 week after stroke. Approximately 35-49 percent of patients are affected by the time they are admitted to a rehabilitation setting. This happens to patents because of multiple problems such as difficulty in swallowing and feeding oneself. We will use a surgical procedure to cause a stroke in rats. Animals will be fed varying diets after the stroke. Brain damage will be measured both by the volume of the damaged area of the brain and by measuring brain function. Brain function is measured by observing the animals in specific behavioural tests. For example, animals that have had a stroke are less able to use their front paw to reach for and obtain a tasty sugar treat. We will also undertake chemical analyses on the brains of these animals at different times after the stroke to tell us how these nutritional conditions affect the function of brain cells. Our ultimate goal is to develop new approaches to nutritional care of patients after stroke that can improve recovery.