Modelingthe neuroprotective role of enhanced astrocyte mitochondrial metabolism during stroke

Cerebral ischemic stroke is the number 3 cause of death, trailing only cancer and heart disease, but current pharmacological treatments have not been successful. Recent experiments have demonstrated that stimulating cal- cium release in cells may provide neuroprotection following cerebral ischemic stroke. I will describe a mathematical model that confirms these experimen- tal results. The model integrates the dynamics of cell membrane potential, ion homeostasis, cell volume, mitochondrial ATP production, mitochondrial and ER \(Ca^{2+}\) handling, and \(IP_3\) production. The model is analyzed in order to better understand is mathematical behavior and to provide insights into the underlying biological data.