GLUCOSE-METABOLISM AND PROTECTIVE BIOCHEMICAL-MECHANISMS IN A RAT-BRAIN AFFECTED BY KAOLIN-INDUCED HYDROCEPHALUS

To clarify glucose metabolism in a hydrocephalic rat brain, substances related to glycolytic metabolism were biochemically measured. Kaolin- induced hydrocephalic rats were sacrificed and lactate dehydrogenase ( LDH), LDH isozyme, lactate, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and isocitra te dehydrogenase (ICDH) were measured in the following regions: cortex , thalamus, midbrain, hippocampus, cerebellum, and pens with medulla. During the development of hydrocephalus, lactate and LDH increased in most regions, the LDH M-subunit increased in the cortex, and ICDH decr eased in most regions. However, ATP levels did not change. The increas es in lactate, LDH and M-subunit suggested an anaerobic environment in the cell leading to activation of the anaerobic glycolysis. The decre ase in ICDH represented a diminution of the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Through these alterations, the ATP level can be kept constant during t he course of hydrocephalus, allowing the brain to create a better bioc hemical milieu.