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Modulating effect of Hypericum perforatum extract on astrocytes in MPTP induced Parkinson's disease in mice
1Department of Zoology, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar 608 002, Tamilnadu, India.
Abstract:
The present study has been evaluated the neuroprotective effect of Hypericum perforatum extract on the reaction of astrocytes in mice brain treated with an intraperitoneal injection of 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) (20 mg/kg with 2 hr intervals). Treatment with Hypericum perforatum extract (HPE) resulted in an inhibition of monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) activity and reduced astrocyte activation in striatal area induced by MPTP. The results show that HPE has neuromodulating effect against MPTP induced Parkinson's disease in mice.
Insights
Hypericum perforatum extract shows neuroprotective effects against Parkinson's disease in mice. It inhibits monoamine oxidase-B activity and reduces astrocyte activation caused by MPTP.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor deficits.
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) is a neurotoxin used to model PD in animal studies.
- Astrocyte activation is implicated in the neuroinflammatory processes of PD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the neuroprotective potential of Hypericum perforatum extract (HPE).
- To investigate the effect of HPE on astrocyte reactions in an MPTP-induced mouse model of Parkinson's disease.
- To assess the impact of HPE on monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) activity.
Main Methods:
- Mice were treated with MPTP (20 mg/kg at 2-hour intervals) to induce Parkinsonism.
- Mice received treatment with Hypericum perforatum extract (HPE).
- MAO-B activity and astrocyte activation in the striatal area were measured.
Main Results:
- HPE treatment inhibited monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) activity.
- HPE significantly reduced MPTP-induced astrocyte activation in the striatal region.
- These findings suggest a neuromodulating effect of HPE.
Conclusions:
- Hypericum perforatum extract demonstrates neuroprotective properties in an MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease mouse model.
- HPE may offer therapeutic benefits by modulating MAO-B activity and neuroinflammation.
- Further research into HPE as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease is warranted.