Mfsd2a Attenuates Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption After Sub-arachnoid Hemorrhage by Inhibiting Caveolae-Mediated Transcellular Transport in Rats

study aimed to explore the roles and mechanisms of Mfsd2a in BBB disruption after SAH. In this study, a prechiasmatic cistern single-injection model was used to produce experimental SAH in Sprague-Dawley rats. Specific small-interfering RNA and plasmids were used to downregulate and upregulate the expression of Mfsd2a prior to assessments in our SAH model. Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency diet was used to reduce DHA in rat brain. The expression level of Mfsd2a decreased significantly after SAH and reached its lowest level at 72 h post-SAH, which then gradually recovered. At 72 h after SAH, BBB function was disrupted; upregulation of Mfsd2a reversed this damage, whereas downregulation of Mfsd2a exacerbated this damage. These effects were primarily mediated through transcellular transport, especially for changes in caveolae compared to those of tight junctions. After stopping the supply of omega-3 fatty acids, the effect of Mfsd2a on inhibition of caveolae and protection of the blood-brain barrier was eliminated. Taken together, Mfsd2a inhibits caveolae-based transcellular transport by transporting omega-3 fatty acids to protect the BBB after SAH.