Neuroprotection with Bcl-220–34 peptide against trauma

We tested the neuroprotective potential of the Bcl-2(20-34) peptide sequence in hippocampal slices. Treatment with Bcl-2 after fluid percussion trauma significantly improved recovery of CA1 antidromic PS to a mean of 92%+/-1 of initial amplitude, compared with only 16%+/-2 in unmedicated slices. The EC50 for trauma protection was 84 microM Bcl-2(20-34). Protection with Bcl-2(20-34) also extended to long-term potentiation. No protection was seen with the reverse sequence of Bcl-2(20-34). Treatment with Bcl-2(20-34) also protected against hypoxic damage, with treated slices recovering to 98%+/-2, while unmedicated slices recovered to 14%+/-2. Similar protection was seen against AMPA, NMDA and nitric oxide. These findings indicate that Bcl-2(20-34) provides specific neuroprotection against acute CA1 neuronal injury.