The dynamic changes of plasma neuron-specific enolase following traumatic brain injury in rats

Objective To investigate the plasma changes of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) in traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by fluid percussion rats and the role of NSE in TBI. Methods 168 healthy adult Wistar rats were randomized into the injury (n=126) and control groups (n=42). To create TBI models, the rats assigned to injury group were rendered different degree of TBI (mild, moderate and severe) caused by fluid percussion (n=42 for each degree of injury). The plasma levels of NSE were determined with ELISA at 0.5, 2, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h from TBI in every 6 rats from the groups. Results At each time spot, higher level of NSE was found in TBI models compared with the low values in controls. At 0.5 h and 12 h, higher plasma levels of NSE were associated with more severe degree of TBI. The peak and resurgence of NSE were observed at 0.5 h and 12 h in severe TBI, 2 h and 24 h in moderate TBI, and 2 h and 48 h in mild TBI. More severe injury was linked to earlier NSE peaking. Conclusion NSE may be involved in the pathophysiological process of TBI and may be used as an early biomarker.