Objective: 

We evaluated the effect of zinc treatment on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and we also determined the levels of Zinc (Zn), Natrium (Na) and Copper (Cu) in the brain tissue during epileptic seizures.

Methods: 

Wistar-albino rats were divided into four groups each as follows: Control Group, Zn Group: Rats treated with ZnCl2 227ml/kg added in drinking water for two months, PTZ (Pentylenetetrazole) Group: Rats treated with PTZ (80 mg/kg, i.v.) to induce epileptic seizures, Zn+PTZ Group. The brains were divided into left, right and cerebellum+brain stem regions. Evans blue was used as BBB tracer. Element concentrations were analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy.

Results: 

The BBB permeability showed an increase in PTZ and Zn+PTZ groups (p<0.01). Additionally the BBB permeability of cerebellum+brain stem in the Zn group (p<0.05) and the Zn concentrations of the left and right hemispheres in PTZ and Zn+PTZ groups (p<0.05) showed an increase. In all experimental groups the Cu concentrations of all brain regions decreased, whereas Na concentrations showed an increase (P<0.05).

Conclusions: 

During convulsions Zn treatment did not show protective effect on the BBB permeability. Nevertheless we have shown that Zn itself might have adverse effects on the BBB. Our results indicated an increase in Na levels, which plays a role in neuronal membrane excitability.The results showed a decrease in Cu levels. Whereas Cu has anti-oxidative effects, we can conclude that this decrease might play a role in epileptic seizures-induced brain damage.