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alpha-Tocopherol and ascorbic acid prevent memory deficits provoked by chronic hyperprolinemia in rats
Daniela Delwing1, Caren S Bavaresco, Siomara C Monteiro
1Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2600-Anexo, CEP 90035-003, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
Behavioural Brain Research
|October 11, 2005
Summary
Chronic hyperprolinemia impairs spatial learning in rats. Co-administration of alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid prevented these cognitive deficits, suggesting a role for oxidative stress.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hyperprolinemia, characterized by elevated proline levels, is linked to cognitive dysfunction.
- Oxidative stress is implicated in various neurological disorders and cognitive impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of chronic hyperprolinemia on spatial learning and memory in rats.
- To evaluate the neuroprotective potential of alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid against hyperprolinemia-induced cognitive deficits.
Main Methods:
- Rats were administered proline subcutaneously from day 6 to 28 of age.
- Proline-treated rats received alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid intraperitoneally.
- Spatial learning and memory were assessed using the Morris water maze on day 60.
Main Results:
- Chronic proline administration significantly impaired spatial learning and memory in rats.
- Proline-induced deficits were observed in acquisition, probe trials, and working memory tasks.
- Co-administration of alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid prevented these cognitive impairments.
Conclusions:
- Chronic hyperprolinemia induces cognitive dysfunction, likely mediated by oxidative stress.
- Alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid demonstrate neuroprotective effects against hyperprolinemia-induced cognitive deficits.
- These vitamins represent a potential therapeutic strategy for cognitive dysfunction associated with hyperprolinemia type II.