Propentofylline reduces glial scar development following gliotoxic damage in the rat brainstem.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of propentofylline administration on astrocytic response following gliotoxic injury.

METHOD: Wistar rats were injected with ethidium bromide into the cisterna pontis and treated or not with propentofylline (12.5mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal) during the experimental period. Brainstem sections were collected from 15 to 31 days after gliotoxic injection and processed for GFAP immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS AND

CONCLUSION

Results demonstrate that propentofylline decreased astrocytic activation until the 21st day, suggesting that this drug may have a role in reducing glial scar development following injury.