Role of tumor necrosis factor–α and matrix metalloproteinase–9 in blood-brain barrier disruption after peripheral thermal injury in rats

Abstract

The dual, inhibitory activity of both TNF-alpha and MMP-9 in brain injury suggests that a TNF-alpha and MMP-9 cascade may play a key role in BBB disruption. These results offer a better understanding of the pathophysiology of burn injuries, which may open new avenues for burn treatment beyond the level of current therapies.