Chronological changes and effects of AMP-activated kinase in the hippocampal CA1 region after transient forebrain ischemia in gerbils.

Objectives: Adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase (AMPK) is an energy-specific sensor within the central nervous system. In this study, we observed AMPK and its phosphorylated form (pAMPK) in the hippocampal CA1 region after 5 minutes of transient forebrain ischemia. In addition, we also investigated the effects of Compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, against ischemic damage in gerbils. Methods: Adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase and pAMPK immunoreactivity was observed in the hippocampal CA1 region at various time points after ischemia and Compound C was intraperitoneally administered to gerbils immediately after reperfusion and the animals were sacrificed at 5 days after ischemia/reperfusion. Results: Adenosine monophosphate-activated kinase immunoreactivity was transiently increased in the hippocampal CA1 region 1–2 days after ischemia/reperfusion, while AMPK immunoreactivity was almost undetectable in the stratum pyramidale of the CA1 region 4–7 days after ischemia/reperfusion. The administration of...