The combination of hawthorn extract administration and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) alleviates hippocampus damage in aged rats: the behavioral, molecular and histological evaluations

The aging process results in a gradual decline in brain function, characterized by heightened hippocampal atrophy and dysfunction. Physical activity can enhance cognitive skills in elderly individuals and is significant in the prevention of neurodegenerative illnesses. Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha) is a fruit-bearing shrub with a longstanding history as a medicinal agent. Currently, hawthorn is predominantly utilized for a range of pathological diseases. This research is designed to assess the neuroprotective impacts of exercise and hawthorn, both individually and together, on the hippocampus in the context of aging. Thirty male rats (24 old and six young) were allocated to six groups. In exercise groups, the animals underwent six weeks of treadmill exercise. Also, the treated rats with hawthorn extract received 100 mg/kg intraperitoneally. The open field and shuttle box tests were utilized to evaluate behavioral performance. Related kits measured the levels of MDA, SOD, and TNFα in the hippocampus. The western blotting method evaluated the protein expression of NFκB, COX2, and iNOS in the hippocampus. Also, the H&E, nissle, congo red, and tunnel stainings were utilized to investigate the hippocampus histology changes. Our results showed that following aging, the passive avoidance memory was impaired. Also, aging causes an increased level of oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as apoptosis and degeneration in the hippocampus tissue. However, HIIT and hawthorn extract could reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the hippocampus. Also, the aging-induced histological changes were improved via HIIT and hawthorn extract administration.In conclusion, our findings revealed that six weeks of exercise and hawthorn extract can have neuroprotective effects following aging.