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Vascular permeability in experimental spinal cord injury
Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|October 1, 1985
Summary
Spinal cord injury increases vascular permeability in rats, leading to calcium and water buildup. This suggests plasma calcium entering the injured cord contributes to progressive tissue death.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Vascular Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to secondary damage, including vascular dysfunction.
- Understanding the mechanisms of secondary injury is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the changes in vascular permeability following SCI in a rat model.
- To explore the correlation between vascular permeability, tissue calcium, and water content post-SCI.
Main Methods:
- Rats underwent spinal cord injury.
- Vascular permeability was assessed by the extravasation of 125I-labelled serum albumin.
- Tissue calcium and water content were measured.
Main Results:
- A time-dependent increase in vascular permeability was observed after SCI.
- Increased vascular permeability correlated with elevated tissue calcium and water accumulation.
- Evidence suggests a link between vascular injury, calcium influx, and subsequent cord necrosis.
Conclusions:
- Vascular permeability changes are a significant component of secondary injury after SCI.
- Plasma calcium influx into the injured spinal cord may drive progressive post-traumatic necrosis.
- Targeting vascular integrity could be a therapeutic strategy for SCI.