In vivo models of stroke and brain ischemia are a core competency of Charles River Discovery Services scientists and technicians. The in vivo models available are all performed in our own laboratories and validated on the premises by Charles River staff scientists. We offer a range of models that can be used for effective proof-of-principle/proof-of-concept studies for neuroprotection, reduction of infarct as well as longer-term, more comprehensive studies looking at functional and cognitive outcomes or stroke prevention. All studies can be customized and adjusted as per client needs.
Models for Stroke and Ischemia
- Transient Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion (tMCAO)
- Permanent Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion (tMCAO)
- Global Brain Ischemia
- Stroke Prevention Model in Dahl Salt Sensitive or Stroke Prone Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
- Endothelin-1-induced Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion (EMCAO)
- Photothrombotic Stroke Model
Example Study Paradigm of Stroke and Ischemia Models

Click here to see a diagram outlining an example study paradigm using our EMCAO model.
Data

7-point Neuroscore over time after 90 min tMCAO in rats for vehicle and test article treated rats starting from 24h post-tMCAO

Salt-induced mortality in Dahl/SS rats over time
tMCAO lesion detection by absolute T2 mapping and diffusion weighted MRI at 24 and 48 hours post-occlusion. T2 weighted MRI is generally thought most sensitive reporter of total lesion volumes. At 24 hours post-occlusion cytotoxic edema in the lesion still contributes strongly and diffusion of water is decreased due to decreased extracellular water volume. Note the recovery of the diffusion closer to the normal values at 48 hours post-occlusion.

Gadolinium (Gd) uptake showing blood brain barrier leakage after tMCAO. Upper row shows dynamic uptake phase for gadolinium immediately after Gd infusion, whereas lower row of images shows Gd-penetrated ischemic brain tissue visualizing the extent of BBB-leakage
For more information about our models used to research stroke and ischemia, please contact us at 1.877.CRIVER.1 or askcharlesriver@crl.com.
Charles River also offers an in vitro stroke and ischemia models. For more information, click here.