Neuroprotective effects of magnesium against stress induced by hydrogen peroxide in Wistar rat.

Abstract

Introduction: Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse disease states. The present study was designed to examine the effects of magnesium sulphate (MgSO₄) against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) induced behaviour impairment and oxidative damage in rats.

Material and methods: Eighteen rats were equally divided into three groups. The first group was kept as a control. In the second group, H₂O₂ was given in drinking water at 3% during 5 days. In the third group, rats were subjected to daily administration of H₂O₂ and MgSO₄ (100 mg/kg; b.w) for 5 days. Animals were subjected to behavioural tests (elevated plus maze and open field). At the end of experiment, brains were extracted for oxidative stress biomarkers assessment including levels of malondialdéhyde and hydrogen peroxide and activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase.

Results: Our findings showed that H₂O₂ treated rat exhibited anxiogenic behaviour and the genesis of free radicals in the brain. Magnesium showed amelioration against oxidative stress and significant decrease in anxiety levels.

Discussion and conclusion: Stress is a powerful process that disrupts brain homeostasis by inducing oxidative stress and its appear that magnesium may have potential therapeutic benefits by reducing oxidative stress and inducing anxiolytic effect.