Effect of the 21-aminosteroid U74006F and methylprednisolone on motor function recovery and oedema after spinal cord compression in rats.

The effect of the 21-aminosteroid U74006F and methylprednisolone (MP) on motor function and oedema were investigated after spinal cord compression in rats. Each compound was administered i.v. as a single dose 60 min after injury. The hind limb motor function was assessed using the inclined plane technique and expressed as the capacity angle. The water content was calculated as the percent wet weight of the total weight. Prior to compression the capacity angle was close to 62-64 degrees. One day after compression the motor function was reduced significantly in all rats. However, the capacity angle was significantly higher after treatment with U74006F or MP than with vehicle, i.e. 50 degrees +/- 4, 45 degrees +/- 5, and 32 degrees +/- 3, respectively. This improved functional recovery persisted during the initial nine days. After compression of the spinal cord the water content increased to a maximum on day 4 in all groups. The water content was not significantly different in any of the groups except on day one and nine when it was less in groups treated with U74006F. In conclusion, a single i. v. injection of U74006 or MP given 60 min after compression of the spinal cord improved motor function without effecting oedema expressed as water content.