Functional Outcome in Rats Transferred to an Enriched Environment 15 Days After Focal Brain Ischemia

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The aim was to determine whether a delayed transfer to an enriched environment improves outcome after focal brain ischemia. METHODS: Performance on a rotating pole, prehensile traction, limb placement, and postural reflexes were tested in 15 spontaneously hypertensive rats housed in standard laboratory cages for 2 weeks after middle cerebral artery ligation. Seven of the 15 rats were then transferred to an enriched environment, and the two groups were tested 1, 3, and 5 weeks later. RESULTS: The enriched environment significantly improved pole performance, prehensile traction, and limb placement. CONCLUSIONS: Delayed postoperative environmental enrichment improves outcome in experimental stroke.