Abstract: Objective To explore expression of AQP4 and edema in hypoxia- high carbon dioxide rat cerebellum edema model and the protective effects of curcumin. Methods Fifty-five adult male SD rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: the control group, the experimental group and curcumin treated group. The experimental group and curcumin group were housed in atmospheric hypoxia- high carbon dioxide environment to induce hypoxia-high carbon dioxide brain edema model. The difference of the hypoxia-high carbon dioxide of rat cerebellar cells edema degree were observed under electron microscopic after HE staining and immunohistochemistry. The expression level of AQP4mRNA in the experimental group and the control group were detected using Real time fluorescence PCR. The results showed that cerebellar cells edema was more significant and AQP4 gene expression was relatively higher in the experimental group rat than curcumin group. Conclusion Rat cerebellar edema can be developed in hypoxia-high carbon dioxide environment, and it may be related to the expression of AQP4 gene, Curcumin has protective effect on such edema.

Key words: Hypoxia-high carbon dioxide, AQP4, Real time fluorescence PCR, Curcumin