Traumatic Brain Injury in Aged Mice Induces Chronic Microglia Activation, Synapse Loss, and Complement-Dependent Memory Deficits.

ABSTRACT: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is of particular concern for the aging community since there is both increased incidence of TBI and decreased functional recovery in this population. In addition, TBI is the strongest environmental risk factor for development of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia-related neurodegenerative disorders. Critical changes that affect cognition take place over time following the initial insult. Our previous work identified immune system activation as a key contributor to cognitive deficits observed in aged animals. Using a focal contusion model in the current study, we demonstrate a brain lesion and cavitation formation, as well as prolonged blood⁻brain barrier breakdown. These changes were associated with a prolonged inflammatory response, characterized by increa

SUBMITTER: Krukowski K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6321529 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature