Anti-Oxidative and Neuroprotective Effects of Supplementary Flaxseed on Oxidative Damage in the Hippocampus Area of a Rat Model of Hypoxia

Abstract

Background: During hypoxia, the increased production of reactive oxygen species occurs during the re-oxygenation phase of periodic continuous hypobaric hypoxia. Objectives: In this study, we surveyed the effect of supplementary flaxseed (Fx) on oxidative damage to the hippocampus of the hypoxic rat model. Methods: In this study, 24 adult Wistar rats were randomly divided and studied in four groups: (1) The control group with normal oxygen and food (Co.), (2) The sham group placed in a hypoxia chamber with normal oxygen and food (Sh.), (3) Hypoxia induction group with normal food (Hx), and (4) Hypoxia induction group with 10% Fx food (Hx + Fx). Both the Hx and Hx + Fx groups were kept in a hypoxic chamber for 30 days while the atmospheric pressure was reduced (oxygen 8%, nitrogen 92%) for four hours daily. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels were evaluated in the hippocampus region of the brain tissue. Neuronal damage was examined using histological studies. Blood samples were collected to measure interleukin-18 (IL-18). Results: A significant increase was recorded in the IL-18 level and hippocampal dark neurons of the CA1, CA2, CA3, and dentate gyrus (DG) areas in the Hx group as compared to Co. and Sh. groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, a significant decrease was noted in the dark neurons in the Hx + Fx group as compared to the Hx group (P < 0.05). A significant increase was observed in the TAC concentration in the Hx + Fx group in comparison with the Co., Sh., and Hx groups (P < 0.05), while a significant increase was observed in the MDA concentration in the Hx group as compared to the Co. and Sh. groups and a significant decrease in the Hx + Fx group as compared to the Hx group (P < 0.05). Conclusions: This study suggested that the consumption of flaxseed could be a useful strategy for preventing the harmful effect of hypoxia on the hippocampus of the rat brain.