Histidine-containing dipeptides as endogenous regulators of the activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca-release channels

We have recently published an experimental method useful for causing discrete cerebral microischemic foci in rabbits. In that study it was shown that on reaching the brain, plastic beads (with an average diameter of 80 or 110 microns) give rise to foci of increased [14C]2-deoxyglucose accumulation, indicating anaerobic glycolysis. Further, it was suggested that the relatively low accumulation of [14C]2-deoxyglucose, as observed in the center of some of the ischemic foci located in areas which are thought to have a poor collateral blood supply, was an indication of glucose depletion. This work is intended to be a useful approach for the study of diffusion-limited consumption of glucose and oxygen in microischemic regions, located in endarterial regions. It is shown that a mathematical model with reasonable parameters can be fitted to a measured [14C]2-deoxyglucose profile. The results of this study are compatible with the view that the glucose concentration in the ischemic center is very low and limits the rate of energy turnover. Together with animal experiments, this mathematical model may impart new information of importance for evaluating the treatment of subcortical infarctions in humans.