Selective blockade of N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channels protects against brain injury after transient focal cerebral ischemia in rats.

The neuroprotective efficacy of the selective N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channel blocker, SNX-111, was evaluated in spontaneously hypertensive rats subjected to 60 min of focal cerebral ischemia by permanent ligation of the right common carotid artery and temporary occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery. Intravenous infusion of 167 microg/kg per min SNX-111 for 30 min (5 mg/kg), initiated immediately after reperfusion, significantly reduced cortical infarct volumes measured 24 h after the ischemic insult.