Effects of propofol and etomidate on apoptosis in hippocampal neurons in rats / 中华麻醉学杂志

ABSTRACT

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of propofol and etomidate on apoptosis in hippocampal neurons in rats.MethodsOne hundred and forty male 4 weeks old SD rats were randomly divided into 7 groups (n =20 each)control group (group C) ; groups P1,2,3 received intraperitoneal (IP) propofol 50,100 and 200mg/kg and groups E1,2,3 received IP etomidate 10,30 and 60 mg/kg respectively.Arterial blood samples were obtained at 2 h after the animals were fully awake for blood gas analysis.The animals were then sacrificed and their brains removed for microscopic examination of the ultrastructure of neurons in hippocampal CA1 area and detection of Survivin and Caspase-3 mRNA and protein expression in hippocampus by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis.ResultsThere was no significant difference in PaO2,PaCO2,SaO2,HCO3-,BE and pH value among the 7 groups.The neurons in CA1 area were basically normal in groups C,P1 and E1 while condensation of the chromatin of the nucleus and apoptotic bodies were observed in groups P3 and E3.Caspase-3 mRNA and protein expression was significantly up-regulated while Survivin mRNA and protein down-regulated in groups P3 and E3.Conclusion High dose of propofol and etomidate may induce apoptosis in hippocampal neurons in rats by up-regulation of Caspase-3 expression and down-regulation of Survivin expression.