Neuroprotection in ischemic stroke refers to treatment that preserves brain tissue in focal or global ischemia. The term neuroprotection nominally focuses on neuronal tissue, but the goal is to preserve the entire tissue, including neurons, glia, vascular elements, and structural tissue. A better term might be cytoprotection of the neurovascular unit. Neuronal intolerance to ischemia is highly time-dependent. Mechanisms to protect neurons may also protect other cellular elements that remain viable after prolonged ischemia. The article expresses continued hope for late neuroprotection with minocycline.