[An experimental study on compression neuropathy--changes of the neurofilament and axonal tubulin content detected by...

Changes of axonal transport were investigated by enzymatic antibody technique in an experimental model of compression neuropathy. Neurofilament and tubulin were selected as marker protein and avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method was used to stain specimens. Compression was applied on the sciatic nerves of the mongrel dogs by the KEIO compression clamps with compression force of 15, 30, and 50 grams. Staining was performed at 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 weeks after the onset of the compression. Electrophysiologic and histologic examination were also studied. As a result, neurofilament and axonal tubulin content decreased in the site distal to the compression clamps. The degree of the changes was correlated with the duration and force of the compression. The decrease of axonal tubulin content closely corresponded with the decrease of neurofilament content. In conclusion, axonal transport was impaired in the peripheral nerve even under a low compression force.