Transmembrane protein 166 regulates autophagic and apoptotic activities following focal cerebral ischemic injury in rats

► TMEM166 protein regulates autophagic and apoptotic activities through Bcl-2 pathway. ► The expressions of TMEM166 were accompanied with extensive autophagy and apoptosis marks. ► TMEM166 siRNA reduced the mortality rate, brain water, Evan's blue content and neurological deficits.