Changes of expression of glucose transporters in the fetal lamb brain after MCI-186 administration to the maternal circulation with 10-min persistent umbilical cord occlusion

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate the effect of MCI-186 (3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazoline-5-one), a potent hydroxyl radical scavenger, administered to the maternal circulation following umbilical cord occlusion in regard to glucose transporter (GLUT) expression.

Materials and methods. Fourteen instrumented lambs were prepared. In three cases, a 10-min persistent umbilical cord occlusion was performed; 30 min after the insult, fetal brains were extirpated (Group A). Four cases had a 10-min occlusion (Group B) and four cases had 10-min occlusion and were administered MCI-186 to the maternal circulation (Group C). Three days following the insult, the fetal brains were extirpated. The remaining three cases had a sham operation (Group D). Brain tissue sections were stained at the locations of GLUT-1, -3 and -5 and were evaluated by two pathologists.

Results. The expression of GLUT-1 and -3 significantly increased in the basal ganglia, hippocampi and periventricular region of Group B when compared with that of Group A. The expression of GLUT-1 and -3 in three regions of Group B were significantly higher than that of Group C and D. GLUT-5 was recognised only in Group B.

Conclusion. On the basis of expression of GLUT, the protective effect of MCI-186 on brain injury resulting from hypoxia/ischemia-reperfusion is documented.

Keywords:

• MCI-186
• glucose transporter
• hypoxia/ischemia-reperfusion