Curcuminoids limit neutrophil-mediated reperfusion injury in experimental stroke by targeting the endothelium

Objective: We sought to test the hypothesis that turmeric-derived curcuminoids limit reperfusion brain injury in an experimental model of stroke via blockade of early microvascular inflammation during reperfusion. Methods: Male Sprague Dawley rats subjected to MCAO/R were treated with turmeric-derived curcuminoids (vs. vehicle) 1 hour prior to reperfusion (300 mg/kg ip). Neutrophil adhesion to the cerebral microcirculation and measures of neutrophil and endothelial activation were assayed during early reperfusion (0-4 hours); cerebral infarct size, edema, and neurological function were assessed at 24 hours. Curcuminoid effects on TNFα-stimulated human brain microvascular endothelial cell (HBMVEC) were assessed. Results: Early during reperfusion following MCAO, curcuminoid treatment decreased neutrophil rolling and adhesion to the cerebrovascular endothelium by 76% and 67% and prevented >50% of the fall in shear rate. The increased number and activation state (CD11b and ROS) of neutrophils were unchanged by curcuminoid treatment, while increased cerebral expression of TNFα and ICAM-1, a marker of endothelial activation, were blocked by >30%. Curcuminoids inhibited NF-κB activation and subsequent ICAM-1 gene expression in HBMVEC. Conclusion: Turmeric-derived curcuminoids limit reperfusion injury in stroke by preventing neutrophil adhesion to the cerebrovascular microcirculation and improving shear rate by targeting the endothelium.