Corticotropin-releasing Factor Decreases Vasogenic Brain Edema

摘要: We report the first series of studies comparing anti-edematous effects human corticotropin-releasing factor (hCRF) and dexamethasone in an experimental model vasogenic peritumoral brain edema. Both hCRF effectively decreased blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability intracerebral RG2 gliomas rats as observed by contrast-enhanced T(1)-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. A decrease water content tumor tissue was with proton-density imaging confirmed direct wet/dry measurements. The calculated ED(50) for 59 micrograms/kg s.c. twice a day, that 0.61 mg/kg i.m. day; hCRF:dexamethasone dose-potency ratio 120:1 on molar basis. action is not mediated release adrenal corticosteroids. microvasculature results restoration BBB integrity up-regulation BBB-specific protein expression. average survival time chronic treatment prolonged significantly hCRF-treated group (35 days) compared dexamethasone-treated (28 days; P < 0.05) saline-treated control (22 0.0001). hCRF, alternative to corticosteroid therapy, may provide substantial benefits respect reducing major side encountered long-term, high-dose treatment.