Effects of propofol on apoptosis following focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in rats / 中华麻醉学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the effects of propofol on apoptosis following focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in a rat model of reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO) .Methods Twenty-four male SD rats weighing 300-500 g were randomly divided into 3 groups group I sham operation; group Ⅱ MCAO + normal saline; group Ⅲ MCAO + propofol. MACO was produced by insertion of a 2-0 nylon filament with rounded end into internal carotid artery toward brain until resistance was encountered. The depth of insertion was about 2 mm. The filament was withdrawn after 2 h for reperfusion. In group I (sham operation) carotid artery was exposed but no filament was inserted. In group Ⅲ (propofol) intraperitoneal propofol 100 mg?kg-1 was administered 20 min before reperfusion; while in groupⅡ(normal saline) normal saline was given instead of propofol 20 min before reperfusion. At the end of 2 h reperfusion the animals were decapitated and the brain was removed. Apoptosis was identified by TUNEL technique. Cellular structure was examined under light microscope. Results Propofol significantly inhibited neuronal apoptosis following focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion. Swelling and necrosis of the neurons were significantly attenuated in group III . Conclusion Propofol protects neurons against focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in rats.