Abstract: Therapeutic hypothermia (TH), also known as targeted temperature management (TTM), is the intentional reduction of core body temperature to 32-35 ℃. Mild-to-moderate hypothermia and advanced cooling technology can be used as an effective component of multimodal therapy for ischemic encephalopathy, brain trauma, haemorrhagic stroke, or other forms of severe brain injury and acute neurological injuries to achieve neuroprotection. The events occured after an episode of acute neurological injuries and cerebral ischemia are multiple. And the possible explanation for the neuroprotective benefits of hypothermia therapy is inhibiting metabolic disruption, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, cell apoptosis signals, inflammatory responses, and promoting neuronal integrity and blood-brain barrier integrity. To know the molecular mechanisms of action of TH, which exerts neuroprotective function, will provide clinicians a better understanding the indications and contraindications of this therapy, and provide a possible theoretical reserves and clinical practice for other therapies when used in conjunction with hypothermia.

Key words: brain injuries, therapeutic hypothermia, cerebral protection, molecular mechanisms