Effects Of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor On Expression Of Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-3 Proteins And Apoptosis In Facial Neurons After Axotomized Facial Nerve

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of application of basic fibroblast growth factor to axotomized facial nerve upon the expression of Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-3 proteins and apoptosis.Methods: 48 SD rats were randomized in two groups, including the experimental and the normal saline group and each group was randomized in 1,7,15 and 30-day groups. Axotomized left facial nerve of animals in experimental group were treated with 2.5ug/ml basic fibroblast growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor was applied to abdominal cavity once a day for a week. In the contrast.animals in the normal saline group were administered with normal saline. Levels of the Bcl-2 ,Bax,Caspase-3 proteins in facial neurons were measured after axotomy using the methods of SABC immunohistochemical staining and levels of apoptosis in facial neurons were measured after axotomy using the methods of Terminal deoxylnucleotidyl transferase mediated-dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL).Results: Treatment of basic fibroblast growth factor caused an increase in Bcl-2; Treatment of basic fibroblast growth factor greatly decreased Bax and Casepase-3 levels. The Bcl-2/Bax has significantly difference between the experimental group and the normal saline group. In the experimental group the neurons of apoptosis are obviously less than the normal saline group.Conclusion: Our results suggest that bFGF acts to prevent apoptosis of axotomized facial neurons not only increasing levels of Bcl-2 protein,but also by a striking reduction in the levels of apoptotic effectors ,Bax.,Caspase-3.