The potential role of JAK2/STAT3 pathway on the anti-apoptotic effect of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) after experimental traumatic brain injury of rats

► Rh-EPO induced up-regulation of phosphorylated JAK2 and STAT3 following TBI. ► Rh-EPO enhanced Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl expression and increased cortical cell survival. ► AG490 attenuated rhEPO-induced activation of JAK2/STAT3 after TBI. ► AG490 inhibited Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl expression and exaggerated cortical cell apoptosis.