Neuroprotective effects of Buchholzia coriacea seed extract on sodium azide-induced neurotoxicity of the prefrontal cortex of Wistar rats

Abstract

This study was designed to evaluate the therapeutic potentials and neuroprotective effects of methanol extract of Buchholzia coriacea (BC) seeds on sodium azide (NaN₃) induced neurotoxicity of the prefrontal cortex in male Wistar rats. Neurotoxicity occurs as a result of exposure to neurotoxins in the environment, of which NaN₃ is a potent neurotoxin. Thirty male Wistar rats were were randomly divided into 5 groups. Group A were administered with distilled water. Group B was administered with NaN₃ for 28 days. Group C was administered with NaN₃ for 28 days and thereafter B. coriacea for 21 days. Group D was administered with B. coriacea for 21 days and then NaN₃ for 28 days. Group E was administered with only B. coriacea for 21 days. After treatment, neurobehavioral assessment was carried out after which the rats were sacrificed, and the prefrontal cortex excised. The prefrontal cortex was then processed for histological and biochemical analysis (SOD, MDA, GSH, and CAT). Pre-treatment and post-treatment with Buchholzia coriacea revitalized the cells of the Prefrontal cortex which were damaged by NaN₃ exposure. Oxidative stress levels also decreased as a result of B. coriacea treatment, suggesting neuroprotective effects of Buchholzia Coriacea.

Keywords: Buchholzia coriacea, Sodium Azide, Neurodegeration, Prefrontal cortex