RESUMO
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: This study investigated the effects of intravenous recombinant Fv-Hsp70 protein on infarction volume and behavior after experimental ischemic stroke. METHODS: Focal cerebral ischemia was produced by occluding the middle cerebral artery using the intraluminal suture technique. Rats subjected to 2 hours of focal ischemia were allowed to survive 24 hours. At 2(1/4) hours and 3 hours after onset of ischemia, Fv-Hsp70 recombinant protein (0.5 mg/kg) or saline was injected through the tail vein. Sensorimotor function and infarction volume were assessed at 24 hours after ischemia. RESULTS: Administration of Fv-Hsp70 after focal cerebral ischemia significantly decreased infarct volume by 68% and significantly improved sensorimotor function compared with the saline-treated control group. Western blots showed Fv-Hsp70 in ischemic but not in control brain; and Fv-Hsp70 suppressed endogenous Hsp70. CONCLUSIONS: Fv-Hsp70 protected the ischemic brain in this experimental stroke model.