In:
CNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets, Bentham Science Publishers Ltd., Vol. 21, No. 9 ( 2022-11), p. 869-879
Abstract:
Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion is associated with vascular cognitive impairment,
and there are no specific therapeutic agents for use in clinical practice. Berberine has demonstrated good neuroprotective effects in models of acute cerebral ischemia; however, whether it
can alleviate cognitive impairment caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion has rarely been investigated. Objective: The present study aimed to explore the mechanism by which berberine alleviates cognitive
impairment resulting from chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. Methods: Forty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham,
model, and berberine. The models of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion were established via permanent bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO). Cognitive function was evaluated using
the Morris water maze, while neuronal damage and microglial activation and polarization were evaluated using western blotting and immunofluorescence, respectively. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assays were used to detect the expression of anti-inflammatory factors including interleukin- 4 (IL-4) and interleukin-10 (IL-10). Results: Rats exhibited cognitive dysfunction after BCCAO, which was significantly attenuated following
the berberine intervention. Levels of synaptophysin and NeuN were decreased in states of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, during which microglial activation and a transition from the M2 to
M1 phenotype were observed. Berberine treatment also significantly reversed these features. Moreover, levels of IL-4 and IL-10 expression increased significantly after berberine treatment. Conclusion: Berberine may mitigate vascular cognitive dysfunction by promoting neuronal plasticity,
inhibiting microglial activation, promoting transformation from an M1 to an M2 phenotype, and increasing levels of IL-4 and IL-10 expression.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1871-5273
DOI:
10.2174/1871527321666220124140323
Language:
English
Publisher:
Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.
Publication Date:
2022
SSG:
15,3
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