Neuroprotective effect of Sanqi Tongshuan Tablets on sequelae post-stroke in rats

Objective: To identify the therapeutic effect and possible mechanisms of Chinese medicine Sanqi Tongshuan Tablets(SQTS) on sequelae post-stroke in rats.Methods: The rat cerebral ischemia sequelae post-stroke models were successfully induced by blocking the middle cerebral artery with electric coagulator after the seventh week and balance beam test ≤ 4. The rats were then received with SQTS(0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg) and Naodesheng(NDS, 1.24 g/kg), Vinpocetine(VP,1.55 mg/kg) for 30 d. The beam-walking test and shuttle test were performed before and after 10, 20, and 30 d of administration. In addition, histopathology changes and GAP-43, GFAP were measured by H&E staining and immunohistochemisty.Results: The model displayed signs of brain damage on motor function, learning and memory function and histopathology. After 30 d of treatment, SQTS at different doses(0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 g/kg) restored the beam-walking scores by 21.7%(P > 0.05), 30.4%(P > 0.05), and 39.1%(P < 0.05); Decreased electric shock by 35.0%(P > 0.05), 50.0%(P > 0.05), and 75.0%(P < 0.05), respectively. On the other hand, the histological changes were less severe and the GAP-43 expression increased in hippocampal CA1 and cortical region.Conclusion: SQTS showed therapeutic benefits on sequelae post-stroke in rats, which might be through the pathway of regeneration or neuroplasticity.