Changes in microglia activity of rat brain induced by Macrovipera lebetina obtusa venom

Aims: The microglia activity of rat brain following exposure of the Macrovipera lebetina obtusa venom was investigated. Methods: Histochemical analysis of brain microcirculatory bed staining by Ca ATPase method for variable doses after intraperitoneal injections given for different time periods was used. The hemorrhagic activity of snake venom metalloproteinases was tested. Toxicological data were calculated using Behrens and Miller-Tainter methods. Surface, size of brain microglial cells (MGCs) and staining intensity were quantified using ImageJ software. Results: The vasodestructive action of the venom resulted in changes in ATPase activity. The intensity of staining of rat brain microcirculatory bed was venom dose-, and time-dependent. Increased activity of MGCs in hemorrhagic loci of different regions of venom affected brain was also demonstrated. Conclusion: The activation of microglia and changes of its form, size, and position strongly correlates with hemorrhage-induced cerebrovascular damage.