The Neuroprotective Effect of VEGF on Ischemia-Reperfusion Cerebral Injury in Rats

Objective: To explore the implications of HSP70 and apoptosis in rat brain following ischemia-reperfusion and to study the neuroprotective effect of VEGF on ischemia-reperfusion cerebral injury in rats.Methods: HSP70 protein and apoptosis cells were detected by immunohistochemistry and TUNEL methods in ischemia-reperfusion rat brain.Simultaneously,the effect of exogeous VEGF protein and VEGF antibody was observed.Results: TUNEL and immunohistochemical analysis for HSP70 showed an amelioration of stalnings at 24 and 72 hours after reperfusion with VEGF treatment,which indicated reduction of neuronal damage.On the contrary,application of VEGF antibody produced reverse results as compared with cases with VEGF treatment after reperfusion.Conclusion: Treatment with topical VEGF application significantly reduced ischemic brain damage,while antagonism of VEGF enhanced ischemic-reperfusion-related brain injury.