Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
of all the cellular and molecular components involved in these complex networks.
The variability in outcomes of animal data reflects our dependence on specific exper-
imental parameters for proper evaluation of results. Cellular and molecular responses
to TBI, including inflammation, may vary according to genetic patterns, use of ani-
mal strains, and the methods used to produce brain injuries. It is clear that cryole-
sion can hardly be compared to fluid percussion injury or diffuse axonal damage.
Also, individual laboratories use distinctly different behavioral tests to assess out-
comes, making the comparison of studies almost impossible. Despite this experimen-
tal variability, the common consensus today remains: Inflammation possesses both
beneficial and detrimental properties, as complete ablation of cytokines and cytokine
receptors generates exacerbated tissue and neurological damage after TBI. New ther-
apies aimed at reducing the burden of TBI should focus on minimizing injury by
modifying but not eliminating the inflammatory response and creating the conditions
that are optimal for regeneration.
Acknowledgments
We would like to thank Ms. Sarah Hellewell and Ms. Doreen Agyapomaa for their
work on the diffuse TBI animal work, as well as Mr. David O'Reilly and Dr. Tony
Frugier for managing the Neurotrauma Cerebrospinal Fluid and Tissue Bank and
for the analysis of human CSF and brain tissue. The research projects performed in
our laboratory at the National Trauma Research Institute are kindly supported by
the Victorian Neurotrauma Initiative and the National Health and Medical Research
Council, Australia.
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