Changes in monoamine contents in the brains of Mongolian gerbils following a 5-min occlusion of the bilateral carotid arteries.

Changes in cerebral monoamine metabolism were investigated in gerbils following a 5-min ischemia. During ischemia, monoamines were not changed, and 3-methoxy tyramine increased remarkably. After re-circulation, noradrenaline and serotonin decreased, and 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid increased. Dopamine was not significantly changed, but its metabolites were elevated. At 1, 3 and 7 days after the ischemia, monoamine metabolism did not change. We discussed the possibility that these monoamine metabolism changes in the early period of reflow might be related to the delayed neuronal damage.