Changes in protein, electrolyte, and water metabolism caused by prolonged spreading cortical depression in rats

Repeated application of 25% KCl on the cerebral cortex for 5 hours led to a decrease of protein content (referred to both dry weight and DNA content). Incorporation of 14C‐leucine into the cortical protein was inhibited by 33%. Six hours after KCl had been removed the normal incorporation rate was found. The potassium and water content of the KCl treated cortex increased. Similar though less marked changes were found in the subcortex, while the values of these substances in the contralateral cortex remained unchanged. The potassium level was found to recover in 24 hours. Much of the change in water content also occurred in 24 hours with recovery to control values in about 13 days.