Effects of midazolam pretreatment on inflammatory responses and cell apoptosis during intestinal ischemia-reperfusion in mice

Objective To evaluate the effects of midazolam pretreatment on inflammatory responses and cell apoptosis during intestinal ischemia-reperfusion(I/R)in mice. Methods Thirty healthy male Kunming mice, weighing 18-22 g, were equally and randomly divided into 3 groups using a random number table: sham operation group(S group), I/R group, and midazolam pretreatment group(M group). Intestinal I/R was produced by occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery for 20 min followed by reperfusion.In group M, midazolam 1 mg/kg was injected intraperitoneally, and intestinal I/R was produced 30 min later.At 24 h of reperfusion, the mice were sacrificed, and intestinal tissues were removed for microscopic examination and for determination of the expression of interleukin-6(IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α)and caspase-3.Intestinal damage was assessed and scored according to Chiu. Results Compared with group S, Chiu's scores were significantly increased, and the expression of IL-6, TNF-α and caspase-3 was significantly up-regulated in I/R and M groups(P<0.05). Compared with group I/R, Chiu's scores were significantly decreased, and the expression of IL-6, TNF-α and caspase-3 was significantly down-regulated in group M(P<0.05). Conclusion Midazolam pretreatment can reduce intestinal I/R injury, and the mechanism is related to inhibition of inflammatory responses and cell apoptosis in mice. Key words: Midazolam; Reperfusion injury; Intestine; Inflammation; Apoptosis