Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Prevents Early Death in Experimental Cerebral Malaria
Author Information
Author(s): Blanco Yara C., Farias Alessandro S., Goelnitz Uta, Lopes Stefanie C. P., Arrais-Silva Wagner W., Carvalho Bruna O., Amino Rogério, Wunderlich Gerhard, Santos Leonilda M. B., Giorgio Selma, Costa Fabio T. M.
Primary Institution: State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
Hypothesis
Can hyperbaric oxygen therapy protect against cerebral malaria in mice?
Conclusion
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can delay the onset of neurological symptoms and reduce mortality in mice infected with cerebral malaria.
Supporting Evidence
- HBO therapy protected 50% of PbA-infected mice.
- HBO delayed CM-specific neurological signs when administered after patent parasitemia.
- HBO reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the brain.
- HBO prevented blood-brain barrier dysfunction.
- HBO significantly reduced hypothermia in infected mice.
Takeaway
Breathing oxygen in a special chamber can help sick mice survive a dangerous brain infection called cerebral malaria.
Methodology
C57BL/6 mice infected with Plasmodium berghei were treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy and monitored for survival and neurological symptoms.
Limitations
The study was conducted in mice, and results may not directly translate to humans.
Participant Demographics
C57BL/6 mice, 7-10 weeks old.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0005
Statistical Significance
p<0.0005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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