Ropinirole induces neuroprotection following reperfusion-promoted mitochondrial dysfunction after focal cerebral ischemia in Wistar rats.

•Mitochondrial dysfunction has been recognized as a hallmark in ischemia/reperfusion neural damage.•Ropinirole is considered as a promising neurological and functional recovery agent.•Ropinirole restores neurological function and histopathological changes after ischemic injury.•Ropinirole treatment is beneficial in preserving the mitochondrial functions.