Abstract 24: Optogenetic Stimulation of Excitatory Motor Cortex Neurons Promotes Functional Recovery After Stroke

Objective: Post-stroke brain stimulations have been shown to successfully enhance functional recovery. Previously we have demonstrated that optogenetic pan-neuronal stimulations in the ipsilesional primary motor cortex (iM1) promote functional recovery after stroke, however, the specific neuronal cell types involved (excitatory or inhibitory) remain unclear. Here we use optogenetic techniques to specifically stimulate excitatory neurons in layer V ipsilesional motor cortex and investigate the effects on functional recovery. Methods: C57BL/6 wild type mice were used (7-9 weeks). Mice underwent stereotaxic surgery to inject AAV1-CAMKIIa-ChR2-eYFP and implant a fiber cannula in the iM1. Six weeks later, all mice were subjected to an intraluminal middle cerebral artery suture occlusion (30 minutes). Optogenetic stimulation began at post-stroke (PD) day 5 and continued until PD14. Sensorimotor tests were used to assess behavioral recovery at PD4, 7 and 14. Mice were sacrificed at PD14 and their brains were pro...