Hydrogen sulfide decreases blood-brain barrier damage via regulating protein kinase C and tight junction after cardiac arrest in rats

Abstract

Background/Aims: Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) can decrease blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability after cardiac arrest (CA) and resuscitation; however, the underlying mechanisms are not understood clearly. Methods: We investigated the effects of inhalation of H 2 S on CA and resuscitation in a rat model of CA. We used Evans blue to detect the integrity of BBB and Western blot to assess the activation of protein kinase c (PKC) isozymes and the expression of Claudin-5, Occludin, and ZO-1. Neurological deficit scales and the 14-days survival rate were measured. Results: We determined that inhalation of 40 p.p.m or 80 p.p.m H 2 S significantly decreased brain water content and Evans blue leakage, ameliorated neurologic deficit scale and improved 14-days survival rate. H 2 S inhibited the activation of PKC-α, β I, β II and δ, impelled the activation of PKC-ϵ, and increased the expression of Claudin-5, Occludin and ZO-1. Conclusions: H 2 S improved the integrity of BBB, mitigated brain edema; improved neurological outcome and 14-days survival rate in rats after CA and resuscitation. The beneficial effects of H 2 S may be associated with inhibiting the activation of PKC-α, β I, β II and δ, promoting the activation of PKC-ϵ, and increasing the expression of Claudin-5, Occludin and ZO-1.