Neuroprotective effects of Madhuca longifolia leaf extract and voglibose in a rotenone-induced rat model of Parkinson’s disease

Abstract

Degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, followed by dopamine depletion in the striatum, causes Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that results in both motor and non-motor impairments. The purpose of this study was to examine the neuroprotective effects of Voglibose and Madhuca longifolia leaf extract in an animal model of Parkinson’s disease. The rats were induced with Parkinsonism using rotenone (1.5 mg/kg, s.c) for 28 days and assessed behaviorally through the Open Field Test, Rotarod, and grip strength tests. Rats were treated with M. longifolia leaf extract (200 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) and Voglibose (10 mg/kg, p.o.) individually and combined. Following the treatment schedule, biochemical estimations were conducted using brain homogenates to assess markers of oxidative stress, such include catalase, reduced glutathione, and lipid peroxidation (LPO). Histopathology was then undertaken on the striatum and substantia nigra and involved observing the brains of the rats for neuronal integrity. Overall, M. longifolia and Voglibose treatment improved behavioral activity, reduced oxidative stress (through reducing LPO – increasing antioxidant enzymes), and preserved neuronal architecture. For these reasons, it suggests that M. longifolia and Voglibose have neuroprotective roles and represent alternative therapeutic prospects for researching the management of PD.