Brain research
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Cerebral vasospasm may lead to delayed ischemic neurological deficits following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Endothelin (ET-1) is an important factor participating in cerebral vasospasm underlying SAH. We used a specific endothelin receptor antagonist, BQ123 to assess the specific role of endothelin-1 receptor antagonist in cerebral vasospasm in a rabbit model of SAH by examining plasma ET-1 levels and the principal CT perfusion (CTP) parameters pertinent to the hemodynamic status of microcirculation following SAH. ⋯ CTP can quantify the therapeutic effect of BQ123 after SAH; Selective blockade of ET-1 endothelin receptor, BQ123 significantly improved microcirculatory perfusion along with a reduction in resultant vasogenic inflammatory responses. The effect of BQ123 on the cerebral microcirculation was lobe dependent.
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The employment of explosive weaponry in modern warfare exposes populations to shock wave-induced and impact-related brain injuries. Among the most common clinical complaints resulting from traumatic brain injury (TBI) are sleep-wake disturbances. The current study assessed the acute effects of mild concussive brain injury (CBI) and mild blast wave-induced brain injury (BTBI) on mouse behavior and orexin-A expression. ⋯ CBI treatment caused increased CD11b immunostaining. However, neither injury was accompanied by an alteration in the number of orexin-A hypothalamic neurons. Taken together, shock wave exposure and concussive injury transiently reduced mouse activities, but some differences between the two injuries were seen.