Modulatory Effects of Ferulic Acid on Cadmium-Induced Brain Damage

Studies have shown the pharmacological relevance of phenolics like ferulic acid (FA) in promoting health. This study sought to investigate the modulatory effects of FA on cadmium-induced brain damage in rats. Brain damage was induced in Wistar strain rats by oral administration of cadmium (5 mg/kg body weight) for 21 days. Assays for malondialdehyde (MDA) content, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), monoamine oxidase (MAO), and Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activities were carried out. The study revealed significant (P < .05) increases in the MDA content and all enzymes' (AChE, BChE, MAO, and Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase) activity investigated following cadmium administration. However, rats administered FA (10 and 20 mg/kg body weight) alongside cadmium significantly (P < .05) protected the brain by reversing the level of lipid peroxidation as measured by the MDA content as well as the enzymes' activity. This study, therefore, substantiates the neuroprotective potentials of FA especially in the management of cadmium-induced toxicity.