The effect of stimulation of the central thalamus on the expression of α1R in the prefrontal cortex after traumatic brain injury / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To investigate the effect of stimulation of the central thalamus (CT-DBS) on awakening from coma after traumatic brain injury and the mechanisms involved.Methods:Forty-five healthy, adult Wistar rats were randomly assigned to either a blank control group, a sham stimulation or a stimulation group, each of 15. CT-DBS was applied in the stimulation group. Behavioral changes were observed, and the content of α1-adrenergic receptor (α1R) in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) was measured using immunofluorescence and western blotting.Results:The varus reflex was found in all 15 rats in the stimulation group, but in only 8 among the sham stimulation group. The average α1R content in the PFC was significantly higher in the stimulation group than in the sham stimulation group.Conclusions:CT-DBS can improve the level of consciousness after traumatic brain injury and promote awakening, at least in rats. The mechanisms may be related to the up-regulation of α1R expression in the PFC.