ABSTRACT
We studied the influence of combined preconditioning (compound pQ-4 and moderate hypoxia) on morphometrical parameters of neuronal populations in hippocampal fields CA1 and CA3 in rats after bilateral ligation of the common carotid artery. Preconditioning produced a neuroprotective effect, improved survival of pyramidal neurons in the early and delayed periods of modeled ischemia, prevented the formation of necrotic and apoptotic neurons and hyperactivation of microglia, and protected endotheliocytes. The positive influence of preconditioning factors on the morphometric parameters of the brain under ischemic conditions agrees with the results of behavioral tests (open field and elevated plus maze) that demonstrated increased locomotor activity and exploratory behavior of animals.