Wogonin attenuates the deleterious effects of traumatic brain injury in anesthetized Wistar rats

Wogonin, a flavonoid (5,7-dihydroxy-8-methoxyflavone) with reported neuroprotective properties, is widely used in treating inflammatory diseases. The main goal of this study was to explore the role of wogonin in preventing deleterious cardiovascular effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Experiments were carried out in adult male urethane-anesthetized, artificially ventilated, Wistar rats, weighing 300-350 gm. TBI was produced by fluid percussion injury (FPI). A significant decrease in blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and greater splanchnic nerve activity (GSNA), which lasted for up to 4 h, was observed after the application of moderate FPI. Intravenous (i.v.) and intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of wogonin before and after the moderate FPI significantly attenuated the decreases in BP, HR, and GSNA elicited by FPI. Administration of wogonin also prevented the attenuation of baroreflex-induced bradycardia elicited by FPI. Based on these results, it was concluded that administration of wogonin attenuates the deleterious effects of moderate FPI.