AMP-activated protein kinase and cAMP response element-binding protein activity are associated with distinct postoperative behavioral changes in rats

To explore the association of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) activity with distinct postoperative behavioral changes in rats. We performed partial hepatolobectomy in adult rats and aged rats. The learning and memory ability of rats was evaluated by the Barnes maze test on postoperative days 1-4. The expressions of AMPK and phosphorylated CREB (p-CREB) in the CA1 and DG regions of the hippocampus were detected by immunohistochemical assay at 3, 6, 12 and 24 h postoperatively. Surgery impaired the memory of aged rats but not that of adult rats on postoperative days 2 and 3 (both p < 0.05). Surgery synergistically increased the expressions of AMPK and p-CREB in the CA1 region of hippocampus in aged rats but not in adult rats at 3 and 6 h postoperatively. Our data suggest that surgery induces cognitive impairment in aged rats. Surgery-induced expression of AMPK and p-CREB in the CA1 region of hippocampus may be involved in this cognitive impairment.