The relationship between AQP1 expression in the subventricular zone and severity of hydrocephalus in Rattus Norvegicus strain Sprague-Dawley rats

Background: Hydrocephalus is a condition of dilation of the ventricles caused by disturbances production, distribution, or absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). One of the integral membrane proteins identified in facilitating water transport across the plasma membrane is aquaporin-1 (AQP1), which is frequently found in the plexus choroid. However, theoretically also transports water to the subventricular zone (SVZ) with an unknown mechanism. AQP1 expression will be raised in SVZ under hydrocephalus conditions. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the severity of hydrocephalus and AQP1 levels in SVZ. Methods: This research was conducted in an experimental design using Rattus Norvegicus rats of the Sprague-Dawley strain, which were injected with kaolin to create a hydrocephalus model. The study included 24 rats, divided into four groups of six each: the control group and the hydrocephalus induction group on day 7, day 14, and day 21. AQP1 expression was observed using immunohistochemical staining and counted semi-quantitatively. Results: The average AQP1 expression increased with observation time in the rat model in each group. The ANOVA test showed a significant difference between the four study groups (p=0.001). The correlation showed a statistically significant difference (p=0.000). The results showed an increased expression of the SVZ with a higher severity of hydrocephalus. Conclusion: The severity of hydrocephalus and AQP1 levels in SVZ are correlated, with the latter being higher, the more severe the degree of hydrocephalus.