Evaluation of behavioral and neurochemical parameters in old rats submitted to sepsis

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate behavioral and neurochemical parameters in old and young rats submitted to sepsis. Young (60 days) and old animals (180 days) (n=40) were submitted to sham or sepsis. Some behavioral tests were performed; Immunohistochemistry, western blotting, oxidative stress and cytokines levels were measured in hippocampus and pre-frontal. Behavioral tests have showed decline of cognitive function. β-amyloid levels were increased in old rats in both groups. Cytokines levels are altered in old animals. MDA equivalents were increased in old rats all times. Our data show that systemic inflammation has additive effect on the physiological process of aging, with more expression of pro inflammatory cytokines and more oxidative stress.