Determining Cell Death Mechanisms after Experimental Hemorrhagic Stroke In Vitro and In Vivo

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) accounts for about 15% of all strokes and has the highest mortality rates among strokes with up to 50% within 30 days after the insult. It is known to increase intracranial pressure and is associated with excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation. However, the mechanisms of how cells die after ICH remain unclear. In the lab, I systematically investigate cell death mechanisms using hemin- and hemoglobin-induced toxicity in cultured primary cortical neurons and cell lines as well as using the collagenase model of ICH in vivo. Core techniques employed are manifold including live/dead assays, viral transfections, microfluidics, microscopy, western blotting, PCR, stereotactic surgery, transgenic animals as well as behavioral testing.  A better understanding of the pathophysiology of ICH will allow for the development of new treatment strategies that can be tested in the lab and the rehabilitation hospital.