Changes in expression of hippocampal neuronal gap function protein connexin 36 induced by postoperative cognitive dysfunction in aged rats / 中华麻醉学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the changes in expression of hippocampal neuronal gap function protein connexin 36 (Cx36) induced by postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in aged rats.Methods Ninety male SD rats aged 20 months weighing 500-600 g were randomly divided into 3 groups ( n =30 each)group normal control (group C); group sham operation (group S) and group POCD.POCD was induced by splenectomy.Cognitive function was assessed by using open field test and maze test on the 1st,3rd and 7th day after operation (T1,T2,T3 ).The ultrastructure of gap junction in the CA1 region of hippocampas was examined with thin-section transmission electron microscope.The expression of Cx36 was detected by immuno-histochemical method.Results POCD significantly decreased the number of grid cross,the rearing and correct responses and increased the time the animab spent in the central square and total reaction time at T1 in group POCD as compared with group C.Cx36 expression was significantly decreased at T1 in group POCD as compared with group C.The ultrastructure of gap junctions underwent significant change at T1 in group POCD.Conclusion Hippocampal neuronal Cx36 may be involved in the cognitive dysfunction after splenectomy in aged rats.