2015•Zhonghua laonian xin-nao-xueguanbing zazhiRequires access
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation improves cognitive function of vascular dementia rats and its mechanism
Xing Meng-y
Open publisher page 0 citations
Abstract
Objective To study the effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation(rTMS)on learning and memory of vascular dementia(VaD)rats.Methods Twenty male SD rats were divided into sham operation group(n=6),VaD group(n=6),and rTMS group(n=8).Their spatial learning and memory were assessed by Morris water maze test after rTMS.Their LTP was recorded.Expression of BDNF and NMDAR in hippocampus was detected by Western blot and immunohistochemistry respectively.Morphology of cells in CA1 and CA3 was observed with HE staining.Results Morris water maze test showed that the average escape lantent period was significantly longer in VaD group and rTMS group than in sham operation group and significantly shorter in rTMS group than in VaD group(P0.05).The swimming time and the swimming distance proportion of the total distance in platform quadrant were significantly shorter in VaD group and rTMS group than in sham operation group(P0.05).The LTP and expression levels of BDNF and NMDAR1 were significantly higher in rTMS group than in VaD group(P0.05).Optical microscopy showed that the arrangement and damage of nerve cells in CA1 and CA3were noticeably improved in rTMS group.Conclusion rTMS promotes LTP and improves spatial memory and congnition in VaD rats by upregulating the expression of BDNF and NMDAR in hippocampus.