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Modafinil effects on behavior and oxidative damage parameters in brain of wistar rats
Felipe Ornell1, Samira S Valvassori1, Amanda V Steckert2
1Laboratório de Neurociências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Unidade Acadêmica de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, 88806000 Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
Abstract:
The effects of modafinil (MD) on behavioral and oxidative damage to protein and lipid in the brain of rats were evaluated. Wistar rats were given a single administration by gavage of water or MD (75, 150, or 300 mg/kg). Behavioral parameters were evaluated in open-field apparatus 1, 2, and 3 h after drug administration. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and protein carbonyl formation were measured in the brain. MD increased locomotor activity at the highest dose 1 and 3 h after administration. MD administration at the dose of 300 mg/kg increased visits to the center of open-field 1 h after administration; however, 3 h after administration, all administered doses of MD increased visits to the open-field center. MD 300 mg/kg increased lipid damage in the amygdala, hippocampus, and striatum. Besides, MD increased protein damage in the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus; however, this effect varies depending on the dose administered. In contrast, the administration of MD 75 and 300 mg/kg decreased the protein damage in the striatum. This study demonstrated that the MD administration induces behavioral changes, which was depending on the dose used. In addition, the effects of MD on oxidative damage parameters seemed to be in specific brain region and doses.
Insights
Modafinil (MD) alters rat behavior and causes oxidative damage in specific brain regions, with effects varying by dose. This study highlights dose-dependent impacts on locomotor activity and brain oxidative stress.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting agent.
- Its effects on oxidative stress and behavior require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of modafinil on behavioral changes and oxidative damage in rat brains.
- To determine dose-dependent effects and regional specificity of modafinil's actions.
Main Methods:
- Wistar rats received single oral doses of modafinil (75, 150, or 300 mg/kg) or water.
- Behavioral parameters were assessed using an open-field test at 1, 2, and 3 hours post-administration.
- Oxidative damage markers (TBARS, protein carbonyls) were measured in brain tissue.
Main Results:
- Modafinil increased locomotor activity and center-field visits, particularly at higher doses and later time points.
- Lipid damage increased in the amygdala, hippocampus, and striatum at 300 mg/kg.
- Protein damage increased in the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus, with dose-dependent variations.
- Modafinil (75 and 300 mg/kg) decreased protein damage in the striatum.
Conclusions:
- Modafinil administration induces dose-dependent behavioral modifications in rats.
- The drug causes region-specific oxidative damage to lipids and proteins in the brain.
- These findings underscore the complex, dose-dependent neurochemical and behavioral effects of modafinil.
