Dalfampridine Improves Sensorimotor Function in Rats with Chronic Deficits Following Middle

Abstract: Background and Purpose: Stroke survivors often have permanent deficits that are only partially addressed by physical therapy. This study evaluated the effects of dalfampridine, a potassium channel blocker, on persistent sensorimotor deficits in rats with treatment initiated 4 or 8 weeks after stroke. Methods: Rats underwent permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO). Sensorimotor function was measured using limb placing and body swing symmetry tests which normally show a partial recovery from initial deficits that plateaus around 4 weeks after pMCAO. Dalfampridine was administered starting at 4 or 8 weeks after pMCAO in two blinded, vehicle- controlled studies. Plasma samples were collected and brain tissue was processed for histology. Results: Dalfampridine treatment (0.5 – 2.0 mg/kg) improved forelimb and hindlimb placing responses and body swing symmetry in a reversible and dose-dependent manner. Plasma dalfampridine concentrations correlated with dose. Brain infarct volumes showed no differences between treatment groups.