Effect of Kangnaoye on Expressions of BDNF, MMP-9, ERK1/2 on Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion in Rats

Abstract:

Objective: To observe the effect of Kangnaoye on the expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) in rat with cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury, and to study its cerebral protection mechanism. Method: Male SD rats were randomly divided into the sham-operation group, the ischemia reperfusion (I/R) group, the high-, medium-, and low-dose Kangnaoye groups (28.6, 14.3, 7.15 g·kg^-1·d^-1). The cerebral ischemia reperfusion model was prepared in rats by a improved Zea Longa method. The rats were killed at 1-, 6-, 12-, 24-, 72-and 168-h reperfusion after 2-h ischemia. The expression of BDNF, MMP-9 and ERK1/2 were observed by using immunohistochemical method. Result: Compared with I/R group, the expression of BDNF and ERK1/2 was upregulated, the numbers of MMP-9 positive cells decreased in the high-and medium-dose Kangnaoye groups (P <0.05). Moreover, the infarct volume decreased significantly at 24-reperfusion (P <0.05). Conclusion: Kangnaoye could protect neurovascular unit by promoting the expression of BDNF in brain tissue, activating ERK1/2 signaling pathway, and inhibiting the expression of MMP-9.