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The Journal of Neuroscience, September 19, 2007, 27(38):10240-10248; doi:10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1683-07.2007

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Cellular/Molecular
Enhancing Expression of Nrf2-Driven Genes Protects the Blood–Brain Barrier after Brain Injury

Jing Zhao, Anthony N. Moore, John B. Redell, and Pramod K. Dash

The Vivian L. Smith Center for Neurologic Research and Departments of Neurobiology and Anatomy, and Neurosurgery, The University of Texas Medical School, Houston, Texas 77225

Correspondence should be addressed to Pramod K. Dash, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas Medical School, P.O. Box 20708, Houston, TX 77225. Email: p.dash{at}uth.tmc.edu

The integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is critical for normal brain function, and its compromise contributes to the pathophysiology of a number of CNS diseases and injuries. Using a rodent model of brain injury, the present study examines the pathophysiology of BBB disruption. Western blot and immunohistochemical analyses indicate that brain injury causes a loss of capillary endothelial cells and tight junction proteins, two critical components of the BBB. Activation of the transcription factor NF-E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) by sulforaphane, a naturally occurring compound present in high levels in cruciferous vegetables, significantly increased the expression of endogenous cytoprotective genes in brain tissue and microvessels as indicated by real-time PCR analysis. Postinjury administration of sulforaphane reduced the loss of endothelial cell markers and tight junction proteins and preserved BBB function. These protective effects were dependent on the activity of Nrf2. Injured rats pretreated with decoy oligonucleotides containing the binding site of Nrf2, and mice lacking the nrf2 gene, did not benefit from sulforaphane administration. These findings indicate a potential therapeutic usefulness for Nrf2-activating molecules to improve the function of the neurovascular unit after injury.

Key words: brain edema; endothelial cells; neurovascular unit; tight junction proteins; TBI; capillary

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Received April 13, 2007; revised July 10, 2007; accepted Aug. 3, 2007.

Correspondence should be addressed to Pramod K. Dash, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas Medical School, P.O. Box 20708, Houston, TX 77225. Email: p.dash{at}uth.tmc.edu

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