The findings of this study reveal a beneficial effect by IVIg on ischemia-induced leukocyte recruitment as well as on endothelial permeability (mediated by tight-junction proteins claudin 5 and occludin), as well as an anti-apoptotic effect on endothelial cells mediated by Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL. This evidence concerns the gene BCL2 and ischemia.