Apoptosis of Cortical Neurons in Ischemic Insult

Acute brain ischemia is accompanied by the intense apoptotic and/or necrotic death of cortical neurons. This review deals with the molecular mechanisms underlying apoptosis, in particular those activated in progressive cerebral ischemic insult. We analyze the data of experimental studies and clinical findings that confirm the principal role of caspase-dependent cell death resulting from acute disorder of the brain circulation. The prospects for the use of apoptosis inhibitors in neurological practice for prevention or minimization of cerebral ischemic injury and reduction of neuronal degeneration within a penumbral zone are discussed.