Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury Causes Acute Dendritic and Synaptic Degeneration in the Hippocampal Dentate Gyrus
Author Information
Author(s): Gao Xiang, Deng Ping, Xu Zao C., Chen Jinhui
Primary Institution: Indiana University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Does moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) lead to degeneration of dendrites and synapses in the hippocampal dentate gyrus?
Conclusion
Moderate TBI causes significant dendritic and synaptic degeneration in the hippocampal dentate gyrus, impairing neuronal function.
Supporting Evidence
- Most mature neurons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus were spared after TBI but showed significant dendritic damage.
- Dendritic spines and synapses were significantly reduced in density following moderate TBI.
- Electrophysiological activity of neurons was impaired after TBI.
Takeaway
When the brain gets hurt, even if some brain cells survive, their connections can get damaged, making it hard to remember things.
Methodology
The study used controlled cortical impact injury on mice to assess dendritic and synaptic changes in the hippocampus.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on acute changes and did not assess long-term recovery or functional outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Male mice aged 8-10 weeks were used in the experiments.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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