[Choline improves lipopolysaccharide-induced central nervous system inflammatory response and cognitive dysfunction...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Immunology

Background:

• Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a potent endotoxin that triggers neuroinflammation and cognitive deficits.
• Central nervous system (CNS) inflammation is implicated in various neurological disorders.
• Choline, an essential nutrient, plays a role in neurotransmission and neuronal function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the neuroprotective effects of choline against LPS-induced neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment in mice.
• To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms involving the p38 MAPK and α7nAChR signaling pathways.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-two mice were allocated to saline control, LPS, choline intervention, or choline control groups.
• LPS was administered intracerebroventricularly to induce neuroinflammation.
• Choline was administered intraperitoneally prior to LPS injection.
• Locomotor activity, spatial learning, and memory were assessed using the water maze test.
• Hippocampal expressions of Iba1, TNF-α, IL-1β, α7nAChR, p38 MAPK, and phosphorylated p38 MAPK were analyzed.

Main Results:

• LPS administration significantly impaired cognitive function and increased hippocampal inflammatory markers (Iba1, TNF-α, IL-1β) and p38 MAPK phosphorylation.
• Choline pretreatment significantly ameliorated cognitive deficits and reduced levels of Iba1, IL-1β, and phosphorylated p38 MAPK.
• Choline intervention significantly increased the expression of α7nAChR in the hippocampus.

Conclusions:

• Choline exhibits neuroprotective properties against LPS-induced neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment in mice.
• The protective effects of choline are likely mediated through the α7nAChR signaling pathway, inhibiting p38 MAPK phosphorylation.
• Choline represents a potential therapeutic agent for conditions involving neuroinflammation and cognitive dysfunction.