Methylene Blue Protects Spatial Working Memory after Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice by Affecting Mitochondrial Quality Control System.

The levels of inflammatory markers increased in both mouse blood plasma and affected brain area 24 days after traumatic brain injury, which was accompanied by impairment of spatial working memory. Methylene blue administered during the first 3 days after injury reduced the levels of some inflammation markers and increased the expression of genes involved in the regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy, i.e. genes responsible for mitochondrial quality control. Additionally, methylene blue partially mitigated the cognitive deficits induced by the injury, suggesting it as a promising compound for maintaining brain function after traumas.