Comprehensive Evaluation of Neuroprotective Effects of Levetiracetam in C57BL/6J Male Mice Model of Parkinsonism: Preclinical Insights
Introduction: Levetiracetam (LEV), an anticonvulsant used for epilepsy, exhibits neuroprotective effects by stabilising neuronal activity and reducing excitotoxicity. Parkinsonism, caused by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, is primarily managed symptomatically. LEV may offer both symptom re...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
JCDR Research and Publications Private Limited
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://jcdr.net/articles/PDF/21141/78708_CE[Ra1]__F(KR)_QC(AN_SS)_PF1(Rf_OM)_PFA(IS)_PB(Rf_IS)_PN(IS).pdf |
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| Summary: | Introduction: Levetiracetam (LEV), an anticonvulsant used for epilepsy, exhibits neuroprotective effects by stabilising neuronal activity and reducing excitotoxicity. Parkinsonism, caused by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, is primarily managed symptomatically. LEV may offer both symptom relief and neuroprotection, presenting a potential alternative therapy.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of LEV in a mouse model of Parkinsonism. It investigated whether LEV, an antiepileptic drug, can mitigate the neurodegenerative processes and improve motor function and oxidative stress markers in a mouse model induced with Parkinsonism using 1-Methyl-4-Phenyl-1,2,3,6-Tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), a neurotoxin that selectively destroys dopaminergic neurons.
Materials and Methods: The present experimental study was conducted at the Department of Pharmacology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, SRIHER, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, from October 2023 to March 2024. Thirty-six male mice were divided were divided into six groups: control (vehicle), control (MPTP-treated), LEV high dose, L-Dopa + MPTP, LEV low dose + MPTP, and LEV high dose + MPTP. The mice underwent various behavioural tests, including the Open Field Test (OFT), rota-rod test, and foot slips test. Biochemical assays, such as Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), and nitrite levels, were performed to assess oxidative stress and antioxidant defences.
Results: The LEV-treated groups showed significant improvements (p<0.05) in locomotor activity, motor coordination, and exploratory behaviour compared to the MPTP-treated control group. LEV at a high dose of 54 mg/kg significantly enhanced antioxidant enzyme levels, with SOD at 0.373 U/mg, GPX at 3.436 mcg/mg/min, and Nitric Oxide (NO) at 3.482 mg/mL, indicating its neuroprotective potential.
Conclusion: LEV demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects in a mouse model of Parkinsonism. The improvements in both behavioural outcomes and biochemical markers suggest its potential as a therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases. |
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| ISSN: | 2249-782X 0973-709X |