Neurotrophic effect of tacrolimus on pyramidal cells of CA1 region of hippocampus following transient global ischemia/reperfusion in male Wistar rat

Cerebral ischemia is known as a major problem in the world. Reperfusion following the ischemia ultimately leads to programmed cell death or apoptosis. Specific regions of the brain and certain types of neurons are more susceptible to cerebral ischemia، such as pyramidal neurons of CA1 region of hippocampus. Recently، using of immunophilin ligands has been considered to be a potential and appropriate strategy for neuroprotective and neurogenitor activity. Up to now، the right time of injection for providing the suitable effect on pyramidal cells of CA1 has not been assessed precisely. In this study، the neurotrophic effects of tacrolimus on CA1 cells were studied on 40 male Wistar rats in 8 experimental groups.

Ischemia model was induced by ligation of bilateral common carotid arteries. For detecting the most appropriate time for 6mg/kg، Injection was done via single and double doses with intervals of 6، 24، 48 and hours.

the repeated doses of 6mg/kg with interval of 48 hours are the suitable dose and time of injection.

It seems that tacrolimus can be an appropriate strategy as a neurotrophic drug for treating brain ischemia.