Abstract:

Objective:The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the expression changes ofbcl-2andBaxgenes and their functions in facial neuronal apoptosis after amputating the facial nerve.Methods:Ratswere randomized into two groups, in- cluding the experimental and the control group. The changes of expression ofbcl-2andBaxgenes in the facial neurons and facial neuronal apoptosis were observed after the facial nerve amputation using the methods of ABC immunohistochemical staining and TUNEL.Results:The expression ofbcl-2andBaxgenes and the apoptosis of facial neuronswere significantly higherin the exper- imental group than those of the control group from the 3rd to 21st day after amputation, but thebcl-2/Baxsignificantly decreased compared with that of the control group.Conclusion:This indicated thatbcl-2andBaxmight play an important regulation role in the process of facial neurons apoptosis following facial nerve amputation.

Key words: bcl_2, Bax, apoptosis, facial neurons, neurotmesis, rats