11.2022 - 02.2026

STROKEMARK C

The “Animal Models” line of the STROKEMARK project studies the mechanisms 

of ischemic stroke using mouse models. Wild-type, transgenic, and knockout mice for aging genes 

(p66Shc, JunD, Sirt5) undergo transient occlusion of the middle cerebral artery followed by reperfusion. 

The outcomes evaluated include: 

• infarct size, 

• neurological deficit (Bederson scale), 

• blood-brain barrier permeability, 

• brain histology, 

• systemic inflammatory biomarkers. 

These models allow direct exploration of how oxidative stress and gene regulation influence 

brain damage, hemorrhagic transformation, and functional recovery. 

Integration with human data (biomarkers and cell models) creates a translational bridge useful for validating 

pathogenic mechanisms relevant to the prognosis of ischemic stroke. 
Animal models represent a fundamental preclinical platform 

for testing hypotheses generated by clinical and molecular data. In the STROKEMARK project, mouse studies allow 

the causal role of aging genes and inflammatory mediators in stroke outcomes to be validated, facilitating 

the identification of new therapeutic targets. These models also allow the testing of pharmacological or 

genetic interventions aimed at limiting ischemia/reperfusion damage, reducing hemorrhagic complications, and improving neurological recovery 

. In addition, animal models can be used to refine the selection of biomarkers useful for 

patient stratification and to develop new translational strategies, bridging the gap between laboratory discoveries 

and clinical application. These preclinical findings could accelerate the development of new drugs and 

guide personalized therapeutic strategies in the management of cerebrovascular diseases.

Settori Scientifico Disciplinari

MED/09  INTERNAL MEDICINE

Spoke 6 : Neurodegeneration, Trauma and Stroke