Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor Prevents Motor Dysfunction and Histological Damages in a Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

Aim of the work: Parkinson’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative movement disorder worldwide. The main motor clinical manifestations of Parkinson’s disease are resting tremors, bradykinesia, rigidity, and postural instability. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) on the body weight, motor function, and brain histology of rotenone-treated rats. Material and methods: Rats were divided into four groups, as follows: Group 1 the control rats, Group 2 the rotenone-treated rats (2 mg/kg, 28 days), Group 3 the rotenone + G-CSF (20 µg/kg, 28 days)-treated rats and Group 4 the rotenone + G-CSF (40 µg/kg, 28 days)-treated rats. Body weight was measured on weekly basis. Postural instability was evaluated at the end of the study and the motor behavior was monitored. Then, rats were decapitated and brain histology was examined. Results: Rotenone resulted in body weight loss, bradykinesia/akinesia, rigidity, postural instability, and histological damages. All these deficits were prevented by G-CSF at 40 µg/kg. Therefore, G-CSF may be a potential neuroprotective agent in Parkinson’s disease.