Table 5.

Mechanisms of action by which hypothermia can limit ischemic damage.

Reduced metabolic demand

Reduced proteolysis

Cell membrane stabilization

Inhibited spreading depolarization

Decreased excitotoxic damage

Lower lactate and tissue acidosis

Reduced free radical and reactive oxygen species formation

Altered proapoptotic signals

Reduced neuronal calcium influx and toxicity

Reduced ischemia-associated gene expression

Inhibited inflammation and cytokine production

Reduced disruption of the blood brain barrier

Preserved cerebral autoregulation