The Effects of Aqueous Extract of Apium Graveolens on Brain Tissues Oxidative Damage in Pentylenetetrazole-induced Seizures Model in Rat

Abstract

Introduction: An important role for oxidative stress both as a consequence and as a cause of epileptic seizures has been suggested. Regarding the antioxidant and central nervous system depressant effects of Apium graveolens, the effects of aqueous extract of the plant on the brain tissues oxidative damage in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures model was investigated. Materials & methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups and treated: Control (saline), PTZ and three doses of the Apium graveolens extract (100, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) before PTZ. Latency to the first minimal clonic seizure (MCS) and the first generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS) were recorded. The brain tissues were then removed for biochemical measurements. Results: MCS and GTCS latencies in extract treated groups were significantly higher than that of PTZ group (P < 0.05-P< 0.01). The malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the brain tissues of PTZ group were significantly higher than that of control animals (P < 0.01-P< 0.001). Pretreatment with the extract resulted in a significant reduction in the MDA levels (P < 0.05-P< 0.001). Following PTZ administration, a significant reduction in total thiol content was observed in the brain tissues (P < 0.05- P < 0.01). Pretreatment with the extract was not effective to prevent from the lowering effects of PTZ- induced seizures on total thiol concentrations in the brain tissues. Conclusion: The present study showed that aqueous extract of Apium graveolens aerial parts possess anticonvulsant activity. This activity is accompanied by an antioxidant effect in the brain.