Neuroprotective Effects of Dexpanthenol Against Chest Trauma-Induced Brain Injury in Rats

Objective: Chest trauma-induced brain injury (CTB) occurs as a result of the formation of inflammatory markers in the lung and blood. Vitamin B5, derived from dexpanthenol (DEX), has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of DXP on CTB. Materials and methods: Forty Wistar Albino males were divided into four groups as sham, CTB (Dropping a 200g weight from a height of 1 meter onto the anterior chest wall), CTB+DXP (500mg/kg, ip), and DXP. After 48 hours, rats were sacrificed under anesthesia, and the brain tissues were put into 10% formaldehyde solution for histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. Results: In the CTB group, rats exhibited significant hemorrhage, increased TNF-α, Cas-3, and decreased MBP expressions in the brain compared to the control group. DXP treatment significantly reducted hemorrhage areas and reversed immunoexpressions. Conclusion: CTB may develop in brain tissue by causing inflammation, apoptosis, and myelin sheath damage. These adverse effects can be reversed with DXP treatment.