The relationship between the expression of Fas mRNA and neuron apoptosis in adult rats following permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion

Objective To investigate the relationship between the expression of Fas mRNA and neuron apoptosis in adult rats following permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion. Methods The rats models of focal cerebral ischemia were established by permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCA) and brain tissue were collected at different time.In situ RT PCR and in situ end labeling (TUNEL) methods were used to analyze the expression of Fas mRNA and neuron apoptosis in ipsilateral cerebral hemisphere respectively.Results The expression of Fas mRNA in penumbra began at 12h,peaked at 24h,decreased to lower level at 48h and 72h and returned to baselines at 120h.TUNEL positive cells were present at 72h and 120h.All TUNEL positive cells localized at penumbra.Conclusion Focal cerebral ischemia induced the expression of Fas mRNA.Fas gene may be the promoter for cell apoptosis following cerebral ischemia.