Neurological Function Assessment in MCAO Mice

The neurological functions were evaluated by the modified neurological severity score (mNSS) and grip strength tests as previously described with minor adjustments [29 (link)]. The mNSS test was conducted on mice 24 h or 72 h after MCAO. The mNSS test evaluates various domains: sensory, motor, reflex, and balance. Scoring for this test ranges from 0 to 12, where higher scores indicate more pronounced neurological impairments. The grip strength test was employed to assess the forelimb muscle strength of the mice. Each mouse’s tail was lifted to force it to grasp the platform of the grip strength meter (Ugo Basile, Gemonio, Italy). Subsequently, the mouse was pulled away from the platform in a linear manner. The maximal grip strength exerted by the forelimbs during this process was documented.