Work

Artesunate attenuates inflammation and neurological impairment in intracerebral hemorrhage mice by inhibiting microglia NLRP3/ASC/Caspase-1

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) impairs brain function through several mechanisms, including local inflammation, which exacerbates neuronal injury. Given the complex pathology of ICH, understanding how to mitigate these effects is essential for improving recovery outcomes. While artesunate (ART) has been recognized for its neuroprotective effects, its role in neural recovery following ICH remains unclear. This study aimed to address this gap by investigating the potential neuroprotective role of ART in ICH recovery. We employed a male C57BL/6 mouse model of ICH and administered ART post-injury. Brain samples were collected three days later for analysis. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to assess localized damage, and brain edema was measured using the dry/wet weight method. Neurological function was evaluated through the modified neurological severity score (mNSS) and the corner test. Local inflammation was assessed by measuring interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and myeloperoxidase (MPO). NLRP3/ASC/Caspase-1 expression was analyzed via western blotting to evaluate pyroptosis. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that microglia predominantly undergo pyroptosis. In vitro, ART inhibited NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis in microglia and reduced the secretion of IL-1β and IL-18. Ultimately, ART decreased neuronal apoptosis, promoted neurogenesis, and improved neurological function after ICH. Our findings suggest that ART may alleviate ICH damage by downregulating NLRP3-mediated microglial pyroptosis, reducing neuronal apoptosis, and decreasing inflammation, offering promising potential for improved ICH treatment and prevention.

Source: Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research

DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2026e14465