AMP-activated protein kinase-dependent induction of autophagy by erythropoietin protects against spinal cord injury in rats.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

Autophagy has been regarded as a promising therapeutic target for spinal cord injury (SCI). Erythropoietin (EPO) has been demonstrated to exhibit neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system (CNS); however, the molecular mechanisms of its protection against SCI remain unknown. This study aims to investigate whether the neuroprotective effects of EPO on SCI are mediated by autophagy via AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathways.

Methods

Functional assessment and Nissl staining were used to investigate the effects of EPO on SCI. Expressions of proteins were detected by Western blot and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Treatment with EPO significantly reduced the loss of motor neurons and improved the functional recovery following SCI. Erythropoie

SUBMITTER: Wang P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6489945 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature