Altered Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Tight Junction Proteins in Rats Following PEMF-induced BBB Permeability Change

Objective: To investigate the expression of occludin, ZO-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 in cerebral microvasculature following Pulse Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) induced BBB permeability change.

Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into PEMF and sham exposed groups (n = 8). After exposure to PEMF at 0.5, 1, 3, 6, and 12 h, BBB permeability was measured by Evans-Blue extravasation. The expression of occludin, ZO-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 were detected by real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR and western blotting. MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity were detected by EnzChek gelatinase assay.

Results: Compared with the sham group, PEMF exposure led to increased permeability of the BBB to EB, which was prolonged after exposure. BBB permeability became progressively more severe, and recovered at 6 h. The gene and protein expression of occludin and ZO-1 were significantly decreased, while MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression were significantly increased after exposure to PEMF. All levels of expression recovered 12 h following PEMF.

Conclusion: Changes to BBB permeability were related to the alteration expression of tight junction proteins and matrix metalloproteinase after exposure to PEMF.