Bilirubin accumulation and Cyp mRNA expression in selected brain regions of jaundiced Gunn rat pups

INTRODUCTION: Few data exist on regional brain bilirubin content in the neonatal period when acute bilirubin-induced neurologic damage (BIND) may occur, and no information is available on regional brain expression of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (Cyps) that oxidize bilirubin. METHODS: Bilirubin content was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography and Cyp1a1, 1a2, and 2a3 mRNA expression was analyzed by quantitative PCR (qPCR) in cortex (Cx), cerebellum (CII), superior colliculi (SC), and inferior colliculi (IC) of 17-d-old hyperbilirubinemic (jj) Gunn rat pups before and after administration of sulphadimethoxine to acutely displace bilirubin from plasma albumin. RESULTS:There was no difference in bilirubin content among brain regions in untreated rats. After intraperitoneal sulphadimethoxine, bilirubin content peaked at fourfold in Cx and SC at 1h; but at 11- to 13-fold in CII and IC at 24h; returning to control levels at 72h. The Cyp mRNA peaked at 30-70 times control at 1 h in Cx and SC, but at 3-9 times control at 24 h in CII and IC. DISCUSSION: The close relationship in distinct brain regions between the extent of bilirubin accumulation and induction of mRNA of Cyps suggests Cyps may have a role in protecting selected brain areas from bilirubin neurotoxicity.