In VitroCompressive Neural Injuries Produced by Centrifugal Acceleration

Objective: We describe a technique to induce in vitro traumatic brain injury in an organotypic slice culture (OTC). Methods: Centrifugal forces were applied to rat hippocampal slices at strengths ranging from 300 to 7,500 g. Results: The degree of neural injury correlated with the forces applied. A morphometric analysis of hippocampal CA area revealed significant tissue expansion. A graded posttraumatic decrease in evoked field potentials was recorded from acutely prepared slices. Immediate posttraumatic cell death was identified at the base of the slice where it was attached to the porous mem brane. Delayed cell death and secondary damage induced by serum deprivation, excitotoxicity, hypoxic insults, and additional impacts were investigated and observed by conventional fluorescent microscopy. Conclusion: Although this static compressive model of neural injury differs in impact duration from the clinical situation, it may be useful for neurotrauma research because it is accessible, easily adjustable, and reliable. (J Kor Neurotraumatol Soc 2010;6:89-96)