The influence of mesenchymal stem cells on the severity of hypoxic-ischemic brain damage in neonatal rats via serum cytokines

Sifeng Yue ¹, Feng Lin ², Zenghong Huang ¹

⁰Neonatology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541000, China.

Ibro Neuroscience Reports +

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December 29, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Serum levels of IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-α correlate with neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) severity in rats. Mesenchymal stem cell treatment reduces these cytokines, alleviating inflammation and repairing brain injury.

Area Of Science

Neuroscience
Regenerative Medicine
Biochemistry

Background

Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) is a severe neurological disorder with significant long-term consequences.
Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for improving HIBD prognosis.

Purpose Of The Study

Investigate the correlation between serum cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-18, TNF-α) and HIBD severity in neonatal rats.
Evaluate the therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on cytokine levels and HIBD repair.

Main Methods

Established a HIBD model in 7-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats using the Rice-Vannucci method.
Administered MSCs to HIBD rats and assessed Longa scores, serum cytokine levels, and brain tissue damage via HE staining.
Analyzed correlations between serum cytokines, HIBD severity, and MSC treatment efficacy.

Main Results

Elevated serum IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-α levels were significantly correlated with HIBD severity in rats.
MSC treatment significantly reduced serum cytokine levels and improved brain tissue damage in HIBD rats.
Longa scores and inflammatory markers decreased significantly post-MSC intervention.

Conclusions

Serum IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-α levels serve as reliable indicators of HIBD severity and brain injury.
Mesenchymal stem cell therapy effectively mitigates inflammatory responses, improves symptoms, and promotes neural repair in HIBD.

Keywords:

Hypoxic-ischemic brain damage Mesenchymal stem cells Repair Serum cytokine