Serum Neurogranin and PNF-H Level in the Early Period in Rats with Experimental Head Trauma

This study investigates the course of Neurogranin and Phosphorylated Neurofilament Heavy Chain in serum samples taken from rats experimentally induced with mild traumatic brain injury during the first five hours after injury. This experimental animal study was based on 32 female Sprague-Dawley rats. Each group consisted of 8 rats (n=8), 3 experimental groups and 1 control group. Traumatic brain injury was induced in the rats by dropping a 50 mg metal object from a height of 80 cm. Neurogranin and Phosphorylated Neurofilament Heavy Chain ratios in serum samples taken from the rats 1, 3, and 5 hours after trauma were compared with the control group. It was determined that the neurogranin values measured in serum samples taken from rats after traumatic brain injury were statistically higher at 3 and 5 hours compared to the control group. Comparing the 3rd and 5th hour values, it was found that the 5th hour value was lower than the 3rd hour value. Regarding pNF-H levels, it was observed to be significantly higher at 1 and 3 hours, and a significant decrease at 5 hours. Increasing serum neurogranin and pNF-H levels may be beneficial in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with mild traumatic brain injury, but more comprehensive studies are needed to determine its benefit in humans.