Sequential changes of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha in experimental spinal cord injury and its significance

To study the sequential changes of HIF-1alpha (hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha) in experimental spinal cord injury in rats and to analyze its potential effects in SCI.

A static compression model of SCI was employed in this study. Expressions of HIF-1alpha were measured with immunohistochemical staining, while flow cytometry was used to determine the apoptotic ratio and bcl-2 expressions.

HIF-1alpha began to increase 1 day after injury, and reached the peak at 3-7 days. Two weeks later, it declined significantly. The sequential changes of HIF-1alpha coincided well with the alterations of apoptotic ratio and contents of bcl-2.

HIF-1alpha possibly participates in the secondary ischemic and hypoxic procedures after spinal cord injury, and may mediate the traumatic apoptosis. Further understanding of HIF-1alpha may provide new therapeutic regimens for SCI.